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PREFACE. Lf() 



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HERE is no department of history that ought to be 
so thoroughly known to any people as the history 
of their immediate soil and of the deeds of their 
ancestors. There is no better way to instil this 
history, and thereby foster patriotism and State pride, than by 
training the youth under the instruction and influence of their 
State's rich annals. To that end I have prepared this History 
of Georgia, so written that it may be used in the schools of 
the State, and yet find ready readers among older persons. 

In its preparation I have had several objects in view : 

First, I have tried to avoid unnecessary detail and the re- 
cital of unimportant facts and figures, but have devoted my- 
self to the general current of history, and the leading events 
as they occurred in chronological order. 

Second, I have endeavored to show the gradual unfolding 
of the State from its infancy in every department — territorial, 
political, commercial, agricultural, industrial, and social — 
and have not confined myself to any one department in ex- 
clusion of others. 

Third, In point of style the book has been written to be 
readily understood by children, thereby adapting it for school 
use, and yet not so simple but that it can be appreciated by 
anybody interested in the history of the State. 

Fourth, The book is to be read and studied in conjunction 
with the history of the United States, and not used in place 
of it. It may either precede, be used with, or follow the 

(iii) 



PREFACE. 



more general study, according to the teacher's desire. The 
United States history has not been entirely neglected in the 
book, but its main history given, so that the reader may 
know at any given time what is the general course of events 
over the Union, while the State of Georgia occupies his chief 
attention. 

Fifth, The chapters are purposely short and kept distinct. 
It is hoped that one chapter will not be too much for an 
average lesson. The teacher will find an epitome at the 
head of each chapter serviceable for reference and instruc- 
tion. At the end of every decade there is a brief survey 
of the State's condition, showing the improvements as we 
advance. 

In writing this book I have consulted many original doc- 
uments and authorities so as to present an entire and au- 
thentic history of Georgia from the earliest time down to the 
present date. 

How well I have succeeded in all this is left to the criti- 
cism of the people whose annals I have always loved and 
have here depicted, a look at whose present condition fills me 
with pride, and whose promise for the future I gaze upon 

with fervid patriotism. 

LAWTON B. EVANS. 
Augusta, Ga., January, 1884. 



INTRODUCTION, 



|UR attachments for places and persons grow less as 
the area of their application is enlarged. We love 
most our homes and our immediate families; next, our 
state and the people of our State; and least, our whole 
country and the people thereof. It may be that this 
is, in part, the reason why our successful teachers of Geog- 
raphy begin with the Geography of the school-room and the 
neighborhood, and proceed afterwards to that ot the State, 
and then to that of the United States and other countries. 
It is certain that one element of the success of that method 
is the deeper interest the young feel in the things immediately 
around them, and the diminishing interest in the more remote. 
If this method succeeds best in teaching Geography, why not 
avail ourselves of it in teaching History? The belief that 
this is the true method has led to the preparation of the work 
which follows. Let Georgia youth first learn Georgia His- 
tory, and then will they proceed, with deepened interest, to 
the history of other states and countries. 

In executing the task, it has been the aim of the author to 
give an account of those leading events which have made the 
State what it is, with an impartial spirit and in a style adapted 
to the comprehension of youth. How well he has succeeded, 
the public must judge. The writer of this introduction, 
after reading several hundred pages of the manuscript, makes 
bold to commend the careful examination of this work of one 
of the youngest of their number, to all those who are en- 
gaged in teaching the youth of our State. 

GusTAVus J. Orr. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



PART FIRST (1492-1799). 

PAGE. 

Earliest Discoveries and Settlements (1492-1732) i 

Georgia Under the Trustees (1732-1752). 

Foundation and progress of Colony 13 

Trouble with the Spaniards 21 

Introduction of Slave Labor 31 

Georgia Under Royal Governors (1754-1776). 

Administration of Reynolds ... 41 

" Ellis 46 

" "Wright 52 

Georgia in the Revolutionary War (i 765-1 782) 57 

Georgia an Independent State (i 783-1 789). 

Administration of Hall 98 

" Houston 99 

" Elbert loi 

" Telfair 102 

" Matthews 102 

" Handly 103 

" Walton 104 

'* Telfair 105 

" Matthews 107 

" Irwin . , 109 

Yazoo Fraud (1789-1799) in 



PART SECOND (1799-1840). 



Progress of State (i 799-1812). 



Adi 



stration of Jackson Ill 

< " Emanuel 123 

' ♦' Tatnall 124 

* " Milledge 129 

* " Irwin...! 135 

* " Mitchell. 141 

(7) 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



War of 1812 (1812-1815) ^ 144 

Progress of State (18 15-1840). 



Admin 



stration of Mitchell 161 

*' Rabun 165 

" Talbot i72 



Clarke 



174 



Troup 184 

Forsyth 204 



" Gilmer 



205 



Lumpkin 214 

Schley 224 

Gilmer 229 



PART THIRD (1840-1883). 

Progress of State (1840-1861). 

Administration of McDonald 234 

* ' Crawford 244 

*' Towns 249 

" Cobb 254 

" Johnson 256 

" Brown , , , 261 

War Between the States (1861-1863) 270 

JReconstruction Period (1865-1870) 299 

Administration of Jenkins 300 

'* " Bullock 305 

Progress OF State (1872-1883). 

Administration of Smith 309 

*' " Colquitt 314 

«« " Stephens 325 

" " McDaniel 326 

Present Condition of State (1883) 328 



THE 



STUDENTS HISTORY OF GEORGIA 




PART FIRST. 
CHAPTER I. 

EARLIEST DISCOVERIES AND SETTLEMENTS. 

1492—1728. 

Traditions.— Columbus.— Americus Vespucius.— The Cabots.— Ponce de 
Leon.— De Soto.— Discovery of Mississippi River.— The Indians.— Span- 
ish Settlements. — St. Augustine. — Charleston. 

RADITIONS assert that adventurous voyagers vis- 
ited the shores of America in very early times. 
None of these, however, should be relied on as 
being historic. The history of discoveries in the 
Continent of America begins with the voyage of Christo- 
pher Columbus, who discovered the New World in 1492. 
Americus Vespucius followed him, and, by more extensive 
discoveries and more brilliant narrative of his exploits, 
eclipsed, for the time, the fame of Columbus, and thus 
gave the name America to all the new-found world. John 
Cabot, employed by England, discovered the main-land of 
North America in 1497. A year afterward he and his son 
Sebastian made greater explorations, and, on their return 
home, gave glowing accounts of the lands they had seen. 

2, Upon the return of the Cabots, much excitement 
concerning the wealth of the New World spread over Eu- 
rope. Among the first navigators to sail was the celebrat- 
ed Juan Ponce de Leon, who was born in Spain, and had 

1 (1) 



2 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1540. 

great military talent and personal daring. He sailed from 
Porto Rico in 15 12, and landed about nine miles north of 
the spot where now stands St. Augustine, in Florida, and 
took formal possession in the name of King Ferdinand of 
Spain. From thence he marched into the interior through 
woods and swamps in search of the far-famed fountain of 
perpetual youth. After great hardships, his little army was 
one night, in a swamp, surprised by the Indians, and nearly 
all were killed. He himself was mortally wounded, and 
being carried to Cuba by a few soldiers, died in 1521. 

3. Another more remarkable character among the Span- 
ish navigators was Ferdinand de Soto, a dashing young 
general, who had served under Pizarro. De Soto set sail 
in 1538, in command of six hundred men. He landed in 
May, 1539, on the west coast of the present State of Flor- 
ida, made friends of the Indians, and established a camp 
near Tampa Bay. Marching northward through many ob- 
stacles, he entered Georgia across St. Mary's River, and 
going parallel to the coa^t, reached and camped upon the 
bank of the Savannah River, near the present city of Au- 
gusta. Here he was handsomely entertained by the In- 
dians, and received from them several baskets of large 
pearls and gold ornaments. When De Soto left this hos- 
pitable people, he took captive a beautiful Indian princess 
who had shown him great kindness, thinking to protect his 
men against the Indians by threatening the life of the 
royal hostage in the event of a hostile demonstration. 

4r. Traveling westward, he camped at the junction of the 
Etowah and Oostanaula Rivers, where the present city of 
Rome is situated. At this place he persuaded the Indians 
that he was a god, and that his followers were from heaven. 
Imposing on their simple faith, he took from them many 
presents of pearls, precious stones, and ornaments of gold. 

5. Leaving Georgia, he went into Northern Alabama and 
Tennessee, through whose wilds he pushed with great spirit, 



1542.] 



EARL Y DISCO VERIES. 



until at last, in 1540, he arrived at the banks of the Missis- 
sippi River. Here he encamped a considerable time, sur- 
rounded by Indians whom he had overawed. Sickness 
finally visited the camp and brought the bold le-ader to his 
death, May 20, 1542, three years after he had landed in 
Florida. As his followers had deceived the Indians into a 
belief of his divinity, they concealed his sickness and death. 




March of De Soto. 

Carrying away his body at night, they loaded it with stones 
and dropped it silently into the great river whose waters he 
had been the first European to discover. The story was 
circulated the next morning that De Soto had gone to 
heaven. Being now without a leader, the adventurous band 
attempted to retrace their steps, but, quarreling among them- 
selves, they broke up into small parties and wandered over 
the country. Only forty of all the six hundred returned to 
Tampa. 



4 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1542. 

6. During the march of De Soto from the Atlantic to the 
Mississippi, he discovered many ruins of temples and other 
buildings constructed on scientific principles, the relics of a 
civilization antedating both history and legend. Bold tumuli, 
or mounds, that were once, perhaps, the sites of temples and 
altars, appeared in many places. Neither history nor tradi- 
tion offers a certain solution of the mystery concerning the 
people who occupied America before the Indians. 

7. Everywhere on his march De Soto found the red men 
inhabiting the land, though not in great numbers. Probably 
not more than ten thousand Indians were in all Georgia at 
this time. They were a rough, uncouth race, living in small 
villages of Uttle skin-covered huts called wigwams, under the 
simple government of a Chief or Sachem. They lived by the 
fishing and hunting of the men, while the women cultivated 
small patches of maize, or Indian-corn. They were often 
engaged in petty wars among themselves. They entered 
battle with a war-whoop, half naked and hideously painted. 
The bow, tomahawk, and scalping-knife were tlieir principal 
weapons. When an enemy was slain, his scalp was taken off 
with a sharp stone or knife, and worn on a string suspended 
from the belt around the warrior's waist. Sometimes a captive 
was tied to a stake and tortured. Their victories were cele- 
brated by wild war-dances, into which the entire tribe would 
engage, and their defeats were borne in sullen silence. 

8. The strange people found in America were usually of 
a brown or red complexion, with high cheek-bones and long, 
coarse hair. Some tribes, however, were of lighter hue, with 
more regular and sometimes beautiful features. The dress 
consisted of a short tunic of dressed skins, a covering for the 
leg below the knee, and loose shoes made of tough buckskin, 
called moccasins. Very often the body above the waist was 
left naked. The Indians were fond of ornaments. They 
wore strings of white teeth, shells and pearls about the neck 
and waist, with fringes of skin dyed in colors, and waving 



[542. 



EARL V DISCO VERIES. 



plumes of feathers fastened to the head. The faces and 
bodies of many were curiously painted with bright colGts, or 
tattooed with figures of flowers, birds, and animals. 




9. The implements by which they raised their food were 
stones and crooked sticks, by which the women stirred the 
soft soil and j^lanted the corn; the fishing- spear and line, the 
trap and the bow. They had no churches, nor schools, nor 
books. Their religion was a vague feeling of awe for the 



6 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1565. 

Great Spirit, with an expectation of happy hunting-grounds 
after death. Such were these aborigines, as they are called, 
found in the wild American forests by the earliest explorers. 

10. Although there had been several exploring expedi- 
tions, no colony had been yet established on the Southern 
coasts of North America. The Indians were still the only 
inhabitants from the CaroHna coasts to the Mississippi River. 
Finally Spain, in 1562, sent out a company, who settled near 
the present city of Beaufort, in South Carolina. This is 
noted as the first Southern colony, but it existed only a few 
years. Famine and disease destroyed the colonists, and only 
their white bones were left on the strange shores where they 
had perished. 

11. Spain also fitted out a fleet which landed over two 
thousand six hundred men in 1565 in Florida, where, with 
great pomp, the city of St. Augustine was founded. This 
colony was successful, and established the authority of Spain 
in the extreme Southern coasts. 

12. In 1663, a charter was granted by Great Britain to 
a body of men called ''The Lords Proprietors of South 
CaroHna," who laid the foundation of Charleston in 1680. 

13. It will be borne in mind that at this period a narrow 
semicircle of scattered European settlements stretched along 
the Atlantic shore. The vast interior of America was all a 
wild, inhabited by tribes of Indians. Looking at America 
about the period from the year 1600 to 1650, we see an 
Enghsh settlement on James River, in Virginia; another 
English company, landing at Plymouth Rock, settled Mas- 
sachusetts; Maryland was also occupied by the EngUsh, as 
well as New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island; 
William Penn and the English Quakers took possession of 
Pennsylvania, and North Carolina was entered by explorers 
from Virginia. Thus the English had a line, of settlements 
on the coast, and claimed all the territory westward. The 
Dutch, however, in 1609, established a colony on Manhat- 



1 700. ] EARLY DISCO VERIES. 7 

tan Island, and laid the foundations of the great State of 
New York. Afterward the Danes and the Dutch built towns 
on the Delaware River. None of these colonies were yet 
strong. They were only the beginnings of the European 
occupation of America. 

14. Taking a view of another fifty years, extending to the 
year 1700, it will be observed that the colonists are in con- 
stant struggle for existence. They had disputes among them- 
selves, and suffered greatly by frequent outbreaks of the In- 
dians. A great struggle called the Pequod War occurred in 
1637, resulting in the destruction of a whole tribe. King 
PhiHp's War, in 1675, ^^'^^ another bloody conflict of the 
white and red races. Still, amid all these difficulties, the 
Europeans maintained their ground, increased in numbers, 
and continued to drive the Indian farther back toward the 
setting sun. 



STUDENT'S FISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1728. 




CHAPTER 11. 

1728—1733. 

Oglethorpe's Charter.— Georgia Trustees.— Emigrants.— Departure from 
England. — Arrival at Charleston. 

^-N the year 1728, James Oglethorpe introduced a 
resolution in Parliament proposing to investigate 
^^ the condition of the prisons of Great Britain. The 
resolution was adopted, and a committee appointed, 
with Oglethorpe for chairman. In their humane work 
the committee soon discovered great inhumanity in the 
treatment of the unhappy inmates of the prisons. Upon 
their full report, measures were immediately considered by 
Parliament to effect a thorough reform in prison discipline. 
This humane inquiry was the origin of the enterprise that 
settled Georgia, of which the public-spirited Oglethorpe was 
the head. 

2. James Oglethorpe was born December 21, 1688, of an 
ancient and honorable family. At sixteen, he entered Oxford 
University, and, on leaving, was commissioned Ensign in 
the English navy. Passing through various grades of pro- 
motion, he was made Aid-de-camp of Prince Eugene, the 
first General of the times. The young officer distinguished 
himself in his service on the Continent, and on his return 
to England, in 1722, was elected a member of Parliament. 
He was a diligent, useful, and influential member of that 
body, and remained a member until his philanthropy prompted 
him to undertake the colonizing of Georgia. 

3. His life was adorned by many acts of benevolence. 
His personal bearing was distinguished ; he had an erect, 
commanding figure, with a frank, pleasing face. His nose 



1732.] 



INITIAL STEPS. 



was large Roman, and his eyes sparkling. His manners 
were engaging, and his general character won the admiration 
and the confidence of all. 

4. The Committee on the Prisons did their work and 
were discharged, but 
Oglethorpe was not 
satisfied. He reflect- 
ed that a colony in 
America would pro- 
vide homes and hap- 
piness for the unfort- 
unate people who had 
enlisted his sympa- 
thies. He sought the 
counsel of Lord Per- 
cival, an Irish noble- 
man, and the advice 
of other philanthropic 
men. Together they 
matured a scheme, 
and addressing a 
memorial to the Privy 
Council of the King, 
asked for a grant of land in His Majesty's province of 
America, upon which could be settled "the vast number of 
indigent persons who were in London and adjacent parts." 
The petition was favored by the Privy Council, and also by 
the Board of Trade. 

5. The scheme being approved, the charter of the colony 
of Georgia was written and received the great seal of Eng- 
land June 9, 1732. 

The object, as set forth, was to colonize the frontier of 
South Carolina with the poor of Great Britain. The terri- 
tory thus granted was described as lying along the Savannah 
River, extending southward along the coast to the Altamaha, 




James Oglethorpe. 



10 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1732. 

and from the head-waters of these rivers westward to what 
was called the South Seas. The country was divided into 
eight equal parts, and was formed into the sq)arate province 
of Georgia. The name of Georgia was given to the new 
province in honor of George II., reigning King of England. 

6. The charter created a corporation of trustees for 
twenty-one years, with the usual power to sell and buy 
property, to have a seal, to make laws, and to have a com- 
mon council, and to establish civil and criminal courts. The 
trustees were authorized to transport foreigners and subjects 
of Great Britain who were willing to go to Georgia, and to 
convey lands to them not exceeding five hundred acres to 
each person. No trustee was allowed to have any pecuniary 
interest in the enterprise, nor to acquire any land. They 
were required to keep a registry of all their acts and of all 
grants of land. 

7. The lands conveyed to the colonists were to be held by 
them as subjects of Great Britain. They were to pay four 
shillings yearly rent for every one hundred acres, but the 
rent was not to commence until ten years after the land was 
granted. It was further provided that all persons born in the 
province should have all the privileges of those born within 
the kingdom of Great Britain. Freedom of religious worship 
was granted to all except those who were called Papists. 

8. The common council chosen under the charter was 
authorized to appoint the governor, judges, and all other 
officers, civil and mihtary, except revenue officers. The 
governor, however, was to be appointed by approval of the 
King, and was subject to royal instructions. 

9. Having procured this charter, the trustees met in 
London, in July, 1732, to make rules for the settlement and 
government of the new province. They determined to locate 
certain centers of population called towns, and to grant only 
fifty acres to each man and his family. The trustees also 



1732.] INITIAL STEPS. 11 

resolved not to convey lands in fee simple, or absolute title, 
which would give the settler the privilege of disposing of his 
land at any time to any person forever. The lands were 
granted for life, and to descend to male heirs, to the exclu- 
sion of females from inheritance. The colonist, however, 
was privileged to name his heir by will if he died without 
male heirs. The condition was also put in the grant that the 
lands should be occupied, cleared, and cultivated by a certain 
time, or the right would be forfeited. These were the first 
land laws of (Georgia. 

10. The trustees made another significant provision in 
their first laws, by which the introduction of negro slaves 
into the colony was prohibited. 

11. The work of collecting emigrants now began. Hav- 
ing insufficient funds to carry out their plans, the trustees 
called for the assistance of all benevolent persons. The nat- 
ure of the enterprise was made widely known, and secured 
general favor. All classes of people sent in contributions to 
the Georgia emigration fund, and the trustees were supplied. 

12. Applications were at once made by persons anxious 
to be numbered among the emigrants. Many were refused 
admission into the company. Sailors, soldiers, and laborers 
already in employment were not accepted. No man was re- 
ceived who would leave his wife or Httle children, or parents 
depending on him for support. No debtor was accepted 
without consent of his creditor. For four months the trustees 
labored in examining applicants for emigrants' places. The 
prisons were carefully examined, and prisoners chosen such 
as would be benefited by the removal without detriment to 
the colony. Altogether the best people among the needy 
population of England were thus carefully separated by the 
trustees to become the first settlers of Georgia. 

13. The preparations for sailing were all made with care, 
and on November 12, 1732, the ship Anne, which held the 



12 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1733. 

company, with Oglethorpe at the head, weighed anchor at 
Deptford dock, and dropped slowly down the Thames. 
Thirty-four famiHes, containing one hundred and twenty-six 
persons, were aboard, bound for the New World. 

14. Skirting the coasts of Southern England, they de- 
parted from Scilly Lights, and set sail across the great At- 
lantic. 

15. Religious services were held daily on the ship. Ogle- 
thorpe's inspiring presence and conversation kept up the spirit 
of the company. The voyage was long, being two months 
and eight days, but at last they reached the harbor of 
Charleston, January 20, 1733. 



[733-] FIRST SETTLEMENTS. 13 




CHAPTER HI. 

1733-1734. 

Savannah Founded.— Tomochichi.— Help from South Carolina.— Indian 
Treaty. — Fort Argyle. — Arrival of Jews. — The Salzburgers. — Oglethorpe 
Goes to England. 

CxLETHORPE landed at Charleston at once, and 
was received with great kindness. After several 
days, he again set sail and came into Port Royal 
bar. The emigrants went ashore at Beaufort, and were 
warmly entertained by the people of the place. 

2. Here Oglethorpe left the emigrants for awhile, and 
taking with him Colonel William Bull, of South Carolina, 
and a few friends from his company, set out in an Indian 
canoe to find a site for his colony. Following the coast, the 
party wound among the small islands at the mouth of the 
Savannah River, and at length rowed up to the high bluff 
called Yamacraw, where they landed, and found an Indian 
village and a Carolina trading-station. 

3. Tomochichi, the old Indian chief and warrior, tall and 
erect, with a commanding, yet pleasing mien, viewed the 
strange faces with some distrust. Happily a Creek Indian 
woman was present who spoke English, and became in- 
terpreter for Oglethorpe. Through her he made known his 
friendly purposes, and perfected a; treaty with Tomochichi, 
which was faithfully observed by both the great Englishman 
and the honorable Indian. 

4. In January, Oglethorpe returned to Beaufort and re- 
moved his people to Yamacraw Bluff, which they reached 
February 12, 1733. Immediately on this first landing they 
offered thanksgiving and prayer to God. 



14 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1733. 



5. The colonists soon brought all their goods ashore and 
stored them under leafy tents, where their first night in 
Georgia was spent. Rising early next morning, they began 
work. Trees were felled, clearings made, and cabins arose 




Tomochichi and His Nephew. 

in order. South Carolina, and Charleston especially, lent 
the helping hand by sending supplies of tools, provisions, 
cattle, and seeds. 

6. Soon after having fairly established the colony, laid out 
his city, built some fortifications, and beheld the finishing 



1733] FIRST SETTLEMENTS. 15 

of several houses and the sowing of fields of grain, Ogle- 
thorpe made a full and solemn treaty with the chiefs of all 
neighboring tribes of Indians, and then in company with 
Tomochichi and other chiefs made a visit to Charleston. 

7. The party was entertained with great hospitality at 
Charleston, and received many acts of kindness. The citi- 
zens' meeting voted nearly sixty thousand dollars to Ogle- 
thorpe in response to his call for aid^ and gave him a cordial 
invitation to visit their city often as an honored guest. The 
Indians were also loaded with presents, which won from 
them many promises of friendship. The party then returned 
to the colony on the bluff. 

8. It was immediately after this return that the new city 
laid off by Oglethorpe was given the name Savannah, after 
the river on which it was situated. 

9. The arrival of another emigrant ship, the James, com- 
manded by Captain Yoakley, and having on board a number 
of colonists and some needed stores, gladdened the colonists. 
Having unloaded his cargo, the captain was rewarded with 
the prize offered by the trustees for the first arrival and un- 
loading of a ship at Yamacraw. 

10. Four months had now been passed by the colony in 
Georgia with litde trouble, and prosperity seemed to be 
promised by all their circumstances. 

11. Oglethorpe deemed it necessary to build a fortifica- 
tion not far from the town, in a south-westerly direction, on 
the Ogeechee River. The fort was named Argyle in honor 
of the Duke of that name, and was manned by a small com- 
pany of rangers. Fort Argyle, eighteen miles from Savannah, 
was the second settlement of white people made in Georgia. 

12. Another ship brought over two hundred and fifty set- 
tlers, and their addition made it necessary to enlarge the 
limits of Savannah. Accordingly the emigrants held a meet- 
ing on the bluff, July, 1733, ^^^ proceeded to divide their 



16 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1734. 

town into wards and to name its streets and squares. The 
division was made into four wards of sixteen subdivisions 
each. Each street was named, several of which yet bear 
the names originally given. 

13. While this orderly work was being transacted a ship 
came up the river and landed forty Jews on the bluff. Their 
arrival created a sensation and even remonstrance. But 
Oglethorpe's sympathies became enlisted, and he insisted 
that they should remain. 

14. Eight months after, the ship FiD'isburg arrived at 
Savannah, March, 1734, bringing a band of persecuted Salz- 
burgers, cast out from Germany on account of their religion. 
When they landed, Oglethorpe met and warmly welcomed 
them. Finding a location that satisfied them, they settled 
upon a small creek flowing into the Savannah River, twenty- 
flve miles above the city, and named their town Ebenezer, 
which means "stone of help," in devout recognition that God 
had helped them. This place is now in Effingham County. 

15. Fifteen months had now expired since the first land- 
ing at Yamacraw, during which time Savannah had been 
laid off and improved, Ebenezer had been founded, Aber- 
corn, Highgate, and Hamstead had been settled as small 
villages on Savannah River, Fort Argyle had been built, 
and a light-house had been erected on Tybee Island. Small 
farms were started, silk-growing commencing, small indus- 
tries were springing up, and while all was yet in the rough 
state of a new colony there were abundant evidences of 
thrift on every hand. 

16. At this bright juncture, Oglethorpe made a visit to 
England, May, 1734, in company with his good friend Tomo- 
chichi, his wife and nephew, and five Cherokee chiefs. Imme- 
diately on arriving, they waited on the King and Queen, who 
graciously received them, and accepted the presents which 
the Indians brought. 



1 734-] FIRST SETTLEMENTS. 17 

17. Tomochichi and the Cherokee chiefs were introduced 
to the trustees, and renewed the treaties of friendship with 
them. The Enghsh nobles showed much attention to them, 
who in turn were greatly impressed by the magnificence 
of all they saw. The Indians remained four months, visiting 
the places of greatest interest, and receiving many presents. 
They returned to America greatly impressed by the wonders 
of the civilized world. 



18 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1737. 




CHAPTER IV. 

1735-1738. 

Darien.— Oglethorpe Returns,— John Wesley.— Frederica.— Oglethorpe Vis- 
its the South.— Returns to England.— Troubles in Savannah. 

GLETHORPE remained in England, after the de- 
parture of the Indians, on the business of the col- 
ony. In January, 1735, ^^^ sent a colony of Swiss 
and Moravian emigrants to Georgia, who settled 
near Fort Argyle, on the Ogeechee River. With the advice 
of the trustees, he also decided to found a town on the south- 
ern side of the colony for a population of Scotch Highlanders. 
In October, 1735, ^ number of these hardy mountaineers 
sailed from Inverness, and in January, 1736, settled on the 
Altamaha River. They named their town New Inverness, and 
the district Darien. 

2. In 1736, Oglethorpe brought, on his return to the col- 
ony, two hundred and twenty-five persons and two ship-loads 
of suppUes. One hundred and seventy-five of these were 
Germans, and they were sent to Ebenezer. Twenty-five, 
being Moravians, were added to the settlement on the Ogee- 
chee. John and Charles Wesley accompanied Oglethorpe 
on his return to Georgia, for the purpose of preaching the 
Gospel. Both of these great evangelists, however, returned 
to England after a brief period. 

3. The presence of Oglethorpe in the colony was very 
much needed. During his absence, Thomas Causton, to 
whom he had confided the care of the government, acted 
tyrannically and oppressed the people. Oglethorpe soon 
rectified the wrongs and restored quiet to the colony. 



1 737-] PROGRESS OF THE COLONY. 19 

4. After Oglethorpe had settled this trouble, he made a 
visit to Ebenezer, which he found in a flourishing condition. 
He also resolved to establish a colony on St. Simon's Island, 
at the mouth of the Altamaha River. Accordingly he 
brought the ship Midnight through Jekyl Sound to St. Simon's 
Island, where he located a new town, called Frederica in 

.honor of Frederick, Prince of Wales, February i8, 1736. 
A fort was built there for the defense of the colony on the 
south. 

5. Oglethorpe left the work to be continued, and ordered 
the fort to be garrisoned by fifty men. He then went over 
to New Inverness to visit the Highlanders in their flourishing 
village. As a compliment to them he appeared in a High- 
land garb of plaid, and expressed his satisfaction with the 
appearance of their town. 

6. Wishing to acquaint himself further with the New 
World, Oglethorpe and a party of friends, with several In- 
dians, proceeded to explore the coast south of St. Simon's 
Island. They first visited Jekyl Island, just below St. 
Simon's, and placed a fort on its northern extremity. The 
next island south of Jekyl an Indian of the party wished 
named after the Duke of Cumberland. Here Fort St. An- 
drews was erected, and defivered to Captain Mackay and his 
Highlanders, with still another on the southern part of the 
island, called Fort Williams. They next entered on a small 
but beautiful island, which Oglethorpe named Amelia, and 
from thence they went down to Talbot Island. This knowl- 
edge of the coast served Oglethorpe well in subsequent 
troubles with the Spaniards. 

7. By the orders of Oglethorpe a military post was 
marked out and established far up the Savannah River, in 
1 735 J aiid called Augusta in honor of one of the royal prin- 
cesses. This is the site of the present city of Augusta. 
Roger de Lacey, an agent among the Indians, was the first 
settler. The place soon grew into importance as a center for 



20 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1737. 

Indian trade. The garrison which was erected was put under 
command of Captain Kent. 

8. Oglethorpe again found it necessary for him to go to 
England in order to lay before the trustees the need of troops 
and supplies to meet the invasion of the Spaniards, then 
threatening Georgia from Florida. He therefore returned 
to England for the second time, in January, 1737. 

9. The trustees had to this date sent to Georgia more 
than one thousand persons. Fifty-seven thousand acres of 
land had been granted, and five principal towns built, viz.: 
Savannah, Ebenezer, Augusta, New Inverness, and Fred- 
erica. Forts had been erected on the islands along the 
coast and at prominent points on the Altamaha River. 
Treaties had been made with the Indians, and their friend- 
ship obtained. 

10. But a serious discontent arose at this important junc- 
ture in Savannah. A number of persons had become dis- 
satisfied. Their dreams had been too bright, and were not 
realized. Their land was poor, the climate hot and sickly, 
and the country full of Indians and wild beasts. The people 
in and near Savannah drew up a petition to the trustees, stat- 
ing their grievances, and asked to have them lightened. 
They desired negro slaves, which had been hitherto ex- 
pressly forbidden. They wanted a change in the tenure of 
the lands, so that they could hold them in fee simple. 

11. The industrious inhabitants of New Inverness and 
Ebenezer heartily disapproved, and sent counter-petitions 
to Oglethorpe, objecting to negro slaves and fee simple ten- 
ure of the lands. Whereupon the trustees avoided making 
any marked change in the laws, but soothed the malcontents 
by granting them some minor privileges. 



[739-] TROUBLE WITH THE SPANIARDS. 



CHAPTER V. 

1739—1740. 

Invasion of Florida.— English and Spanish Claim.— Oglethorpe Brings 
Troops.— Spanish Treachery.— Death of Tomochichi.— Skirmish with 
the Spaniards.— Further Discontent of the Colonists.— Attempt upon 
St. Augustine. 

^~^HE English claim to the territory of South Carolina and 
(^Jfe Georgia was founded on the right of discovery through 
vwls^J ^j^g Cabots, in 1497, and the active measures of colo- 
nization which Great Britain had taken. Spain had founded 
the city of St. Augustine and colonized Florida, but the divid- 
ing line between the English and Spanish discoveries had 
been long in dispute. On this account Carolina suffered 
several frontier troubles with the Spaniards. The settlement 
of Georgia interposed a thriving colony between the dis- 
putants, and the Spaniards directed their enmity on the 
Georgians. The Spanish » claim to all Georgia and South 
Carolina was again reasserted, and when Spain threatened 
to invade and exterminate the colony, war was declared by 
England, October 22, 1739. 

2. A year previous to this declaration of war, Oglethorpe 
had arrived from England, in September, 1738, with half a 
regiment of men, which he landed at St. Simon's Island. 
The other half had come over in the spring of the same year 
and reinforced the forts and troops at Frederica. These 
troops afforded a seasonable relief to the southern settlements, 
then in a state of apprehension of Spanish invasion. St. 
Augustine had also been garrisoned strongly by the Spanish, 
and their naval force was increased. 

3. In the meantime Oglethorpe met the Indian chiefs 



22 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1739. 

in council, and confirmed the friendly treaties existing be- 
tween them. Oglethorpe located his fortified camps on Jekyl 
and Cumberland Islands, where he watched the movements 
of the enemy. 

4. The wily Spaniards introduced several spies into these 
camps, who instigated a mutiny designed to issue in the 
murder of Oglethorpe. A soldier was selected to begin the 
mutiny. Approaching Oglethorpe, he demanded more rations, 
and this being refused, he returned such an insulting answer 
that Captain Mackay, greatly incensed^ cut at him with his 
sword. The soldier catching the blade, broke it, and threw 
the pieces at the officer's head; then, fleeing to the fort, 
seized his gun and fired upon Oglethorpe, the ball whizzing 
over his shoulder and the powder burning his face. An- 
other soldier attempted to fire, but his gun flashed and failed. 
At this juncture several officers surrounded Oglethorpe and 
seized the mutinous soldiers. They were afterwards tried, 
sentenced, and shot for their grave offense. 

5. The Spanish also excited an insurrection among the 
negroes of South Carolina, below Charleston. A band of 
these negroes assembled at Stono, killed the officers of the 
post, seized the public stores, and marched in a mob toward 
Charleston, r^avaging the country as they went. Their ap- 
proach was discovered and alarm given at Charleston. The 
inhabitants, who were at church, seized their arms, and, march- 
ing out to meet the negroes, found them drunk with the liquor 
of the public stores, and reveling around a great fire in an 
open field. On attacking them several were killed, and the 
rest routed or taken prisoners. These and several other in- 
stances showed Oglethorpe the character of the enemy with 
whom he had to deal. 

6. Tomochichi, the faithful friend of Oglethorpe, died, 
October 5, 1739, near Savannah. The body was brought 
down the river in a canoe, and met at the bluff by Ogle- 
thorpe and the civil authorities. Forming a procession, they 



1 739-] TROUBLE WITH THE SPANIARDS. 23 

marched slowly into Savannah, and while minute-guns were 
fired from the battery, laid the old chief in his last resting- 
place. The military fired three volleys over his grave, and 
the colonists mourned his death. 

7. Oglethorpe now received orders to carry on open war 
against the Spanish in Florida. Accordingly he summoned 
a thousand Indians and a troop of horse, and with a High- 
land regiment went in pursuit of a party of Spaniards who 
had attacked the fort on Amelia Island and murdered a 
few men. Pursuing them to the St. John's River, he burned 
all their boats, and drove them back into St. Augustine. 
Oglethorpe then returned to Frederica, after sending fifty 
soldiers and a body of Indians up the river, instructing 
them to destroy all boats, and capture the forts built at 
Picolata. 

8. This last expedition failing, Oglethorpe prepared with 
a strong force of Indians and his own men to invade Florida, 
and set out December i, 1739. The whole of the St. John's 
River was soon in possession of Oglethorpe, and the com- 
munication between the Spanish and their Indian aUies was 
broken. Garrisoning all the captured positions, Oglethorpe 
returned to Frederica. 

9. At this stage of the war the colonists again became 
discontented. Many of those in and near Savannah had 
begun to abuse Oglethorpe. They wanted slaves, rum, and 
changes of the laws concerning their lands. But notwith- 
standing these difficulties, Oglethorpe continued his active 
operations against the Spaniards. 

10. To add to his cares, a prisoner named Christian Priber 
was captured among the Cherokee Indians, who was proven 
to be a French spy. He was endeavoring to induce the 
Indians to forsake their British allies and estabhsh a new 
government, with him at its head. Priber was caught, and 
died in prison. All his plans failed. 

11. Every thing being in readiness for further invasion of 



24 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1740. 

Florida, Oglethorpe left Frederica, May, 1740, with eleven 
hundred men, including Indians, and marched toward St. 
Augustine. May 10, 1740, he captured St. Diego, containing 
cannon, arms, ammunition, and fifty-seven men. He then 
captured Fort Moosa, two miles from St. Augustine, driving 
the Spaniards into the city. Being reinforced by Carolina 
troops, he at first resolved to attack the city by land and 
sea, but finding that the ships could not approach the city, 
he desisted from the attack, and placed the town in siege, 

12. Colonel Palmer was then ordered to scour the country 
around St. Augustine with a troop of horse, capture strag- 
glers, and deceive the enemy as to the numbers of the British 
force. But one night at Fort Moosa he was surprised by 
a party of Spaniards, captured, most of his men murdered, 
and the fort retaken. Among the prisoners was the noble 
Captain Mcintosh, who afterward was cruelly treated by 
the enemy. This capture opened to the Spanish the way 
of relieving with supplies their already straitened garrison. 
To avoid a longer siege, Oglethorpe resolved to bombard 
the city, and thus reduce it to terms. The bombardment 
was kept up twenty days, being returned with briskness by 
the Spaniards. Reinforcements coming to the besieged at 
this time, the heat of the climate enfeebling the English, 
and Oglethorpe himself being taken sick, the siege was raised, 
July 20, 1740, and the British forces returned to Frederica. 

13. The English lost about fifty men, including those 
killed at Fort Moosa, while the Spanish loss was four hun- 
dred and fifty men, four forts, with much arms and ammu- 
nition. 



741.] 



INVASION BY SPANIARDS. 



25 



CHAPTER VI. 



1741—1744. 



Orphan House.— Discontent.— Change of Government.— Colony Divided 
into Counties. — Preparations by Spaniards to Invade and by English to 
Meet Invasions.— Battles Around Frederica. — Oglethorpe's Strategy. — 
Departure of Spaniards.— Frontier Troubles and Final Settlement.— 
Oglethorpe's Life and Death. 

'N this year, 1741, the Orphans' House at Bethesda, 
which had been begun March 25, 1740, received and 
provided for eighty-four inmates, sixty-eight of them 
being orphans. The scheme of this orphanage orig- 
inated with Oglethorpe and Charles Wesley, but the funds 





Bethesda Orphan Asylum. 

for its erection were raised by George Whitfield, the eloquent 
preacher, who first came to America in 1738. The orphan- 
age was located at Bethesda, near Savannah, where it still 
remains. 

2. In the beginning of 1741 there were many signs of 
thrift, but there was also much depression. Discontent had 
spread among both the thrifty and the thriftless population. 



26 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1741. 

The pine lands were poor, and held by an unsatisfactory 
tenure. The agriculture was decreasing, and there was 
little profitable commerce. The thriftless worked no better 
in Georgia than they had in London, and the thrifty were 
discouraged by the obstacles to success. Special complaint 
was made that the climate and lands were unsuited to the 
production of wine and silk, but the trustees insisted that 
these should be produced. The cotton plant was grown 
with success, but the trustees did not favor its cultivation. 
Negro slaves and rum were still prohibited. Complaints 
were made against the competency and uprightness of the 
magistrates of the town courts, who had ample civil and 
criminal jurisdiction. 

3. The severe letters of James Habersham, an intelligent 
merchant among the colonists, falling into the hands of the 
trustees, led to an investigation of the condition of the 
colony. 

4. As the population and trouble increased, the trustees 
resolved to change the original plan of government by magis- 
trates, which had worked so ill. Accordingly, in January, 
1 741, a committee was appointed from their own number, 
who framed a new plan for the better government of the 
colony, providing for a division into counties, and its man- 
agement under a written constitution. The scheme was 
adopted, and in April of that year Georgia was divided into 
the two counties of Savannah and Frederica, the former in- 
cluding all the territory north of Darien; the other included 
the settlements between Darien and the Altamaha River. 

5. William Stephens was appointed president of the county 
of Savannah, with Henry Parker, Thomas Jones, John Fal- 
lowfield, and Samuel Mercer, assistants. The county of 
Frederica received no appointments. On October 12, 1741, 
the new officers were installed, and the new government 
went into operation. 

6. The principal benefit derived by the change was that 



1742.] INVASION BY SPANIARDS. 27 

the powers of the town courts were so limited that the mag- 
istrates could no longer oppress the inhabitants. General 
Oglethorpe still retained his authority as commander-in-chief 
of the whole colony. This scheme of government was again 
changed in May, 1743, on account of Oglethorpe's intended 
return to England. The constitution was so far altered as 
to consolidate the two counties into one, with the officers of 
Savannah County in charge of the whole. 

7. To carry out their long-cherished desire of completely 
exterminating the entire Georgia colony, the Spaniards pre- 
pared a great armament at Havanna, consisting of seven 
thousand men and fifty-six vessels. This fleet set sail for St. 
Augustine, and Oglethorpe was informed at Frederica of the 
threatened invasion. He hastily sent a petition for troops to 
South Carolina, and, collecting all the ammunition and can- 
non in the colony, summoned his Indian allies, with his 
regiment of Highlanders, and, fortifying his camp at Fred- 
erica, awaited the coming of the enemy. 

8. June 21, 1742, a fleet of nine sail appeared in Amelia 
Sound, but were driven away by the fort on Cumberland 
Island. The enemy next appeared in Cumberland Sound, 
but Oglethorpe, with six boats and a hundred men, drove 
them off, relieving Captain Dunbar at Fort William. Then 
he returned to Frederica, and, calling in supplies and troops, 
sent again to Charleston for reinforcements. 

9. A large fleet of thirty-six vessels, with over five thou- 
sand men, appeared at St. Francis Island, June 28th, under 
command of Don Manuel De Montiano, but made no demon- 
stration until July 5th. The flood tide brought the fleet in 
beautiful array into the harbor. They raised the red flag, 
and landed the troops on the southern end of the island, 
where they erected a battery of eighteen guns. Abandoning 
Fort St. Simon's, Oglethorpe ordered all the guns to be 
spiked, the ammunition to be destroyed, and the troops to 
fall back into Frederica. 



28 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1742. 

10. Oglethorpe had only seven hundred men in his com- 
mand, but hourly expected recruits from Carolina, and 
worked diligently to prepare his defenses. Scouting parties 
were also kept in the woods continually harassing the enemy 
and bringing in prisoners. 

11. On July 7th, a patrol announced a party of the enemy 
within two miles of Frederica. Hastily summoning four 
platoons of soldiers, and ordering the regiment to follow, 
Oglethorpe rapidly sallied forth to meet them in the woods. 
Attacking with spirit, he almost totally destroyed the enemy's 
advanced force. The Spanish commander, Sanches, of this 
advanced detachment, was captured and Captain Magelito 
killed. Pushing on several miles toward the main body, 
he formed an ambush in the woods, and then returned 
hastily to Frederica to hurry on his rangers and marines to 
the field of action. Hearing firing in the woods where he 
had stationed his ambush, he hastened forward, and met a 
part of the platoons, who were retreating in the drizzling 
rain before the galling fire of the Spaniards, who had driven 
them from the ambuscade. Oglethorpe was told by the 
retreating troops that his entire force had been driven back, 
but observing that two companies were missing, and hear- 
ing fresh firing in the woods, he commanded the officer to 
rally the men and follow him. 

12. The two missing companies, commanded by Lieu- 
tenants Sutherland and Mackay, had succeeded by a skill- 
ful manoeuver in getting behind the victorious Spaniards, 
and had secreted themselves in an ambush upon the road 
by which the Spaniards would return to their camp. Before 
long the enemy came in sight, halted within the defile where 
the ambuscade was placed, and, stacking their arms, laid 
down to rest in fancied security. The signal of attack being 
given, a deadly fire was poured down upon the unsuspecting 
enemy. Fleeing in all directions, they were met by the 
bayonet and scalping-knife, and the ground was strewed 



1742.] INVASION BY SPANIARDS. 29 

with the dead. Oglethorpe did not reach the scene of the 
action, but showed his appreciation of the bravery of the 
young officers by promoting them upon the spot. The pur- 
suit of the enemy was continued to the Spanish camp. Next 
morning an escaped prisoner informed Oglethorpe that the 
Spaniards had lost two hundred and forty men, besides the 
nineteen prisoners. 

13. Oglethorpe now resolved to attack them by surprise 
at night, though his forces were small. But when he had 
advanced within a short space of their troops, one of his 
soldiers fired off his gun, and ran into the Spanish camp. 
Oglethorpe then hastily retired. He knew the deserter would 
give information of the strength and position of his army, 
and he devised a plan to thwart the treason. Addressing a 
letter in French to this man, he urged him by all means to 
persuade the Spaniards to the attack, to speak of the small- 
ness of his forces, and the exposure of his position, or, at 
least, to induce them to remain three days longer upon the 
island, when, his reinforcements arriving, he could make a 
descent upon them. 

14. Intrusting this letter to a Spanish prisoner, and inti- 
mating it was to be delivered to a spy upon the camp, he 
gave him his liberty. Of course the letter went immediately 
to Spanish head-quarters. It there produced such consterna- 
tion among the Spanish that they set fire to the fort, and 
hastily embarked, July 14, 1742, forgetting much of their 
arms and ammunition. 

15. In this manner the Spaniards returned home, not hav- 
ing gained a single complete victory, and having lost many 
men and much stores. The contest had lasted one month, 
and Georgia and South Carolina were freed from their south- 
ern enemy. No further trouble was felt. The war between 
England and Spain took a wider European field, and Georgia 
feuds were forgotten. Oglethorpe again turned his attention 
to the internal improvement of the colony. 



30 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1743. 

16. After the Spanish invasion, grave but untrue reports 
against Oglethorpe were circulated in Charleston by private 
parties. Lieutenant-Colonel Cooke, one of his officers, pre- 
ferred nineteen charges against him, on account of which he 
embarked for England, September, 1743, to meet the general 
court-martial ordered to meet at the Horse Guards for his 
trial. The trial was held June, 1744, before a board of 
officers. After deliberate and thorough examination, during 
several days, the Court determined that all the charges were 
"false, maUcious, and without foundation." They gave 
Oglethorpe an honorable acquittal, and Colonel Cooke was 
dismissed the service. 

17. After this trial in England, Oglethorpe never returned 
to Georgia. War with France occurring 1754, King George 
11. appointed him Brigadier-General, to serve under Lord 
Stair. During this year he married Elizabeth Wright, the 
daughter of a wealthy baronet, who had once been Lord 
High Chancellor. He was called, however, from Cranham 
Hall, where he had gone with his wife, to meet the Pretender, 
in which service Oglethorpe was commissioned Major-Gen- 
eral. One of the companies in his command was named 
the Georgia Rangers in compliment to him. February 22, 
1747, he was made Lieutenant-General of the British army. 

18. February 22, 1765, he was made Commander-in-Chief 
of all His Majesty's forces, and by many it was affirmed that 
he was offered the command of the armies sent to subjugate 
the American colonies in the war of the Revolution. This 
he declined, saying, "he knew the Americans well, that 
they never would be subdued by force, but that obedience 
would be secured by doing them justice." He returned to 
his estate, and spent the rest of his life in quiet. The decline 
of his life was peaceful, and June 30, 1785, he died in the 
ninety-seventh year of his age. 



1 735-] INTRODUCTION OF SLAVE LABOR. 31 




CHAPTER VII. 

1749. 

Sir John Hawkins. — W^hite Servants.— Consequence of Lack of Slaves. — 
Petition to Trustees Refused. — Counter-Petition of the Germans and 
Scotch. — Thomas Stephens sent to England.— Action of Parliament. — 
Action of Trustees.— Meeting in Savannah.— Conditions and Limita* 
tions.— Slaves Introduced. 

HE slave trade was introduced into England by Sir 
John Hawkins, in 1563, and received the sanction 
of kings and queens, and many acts of Parliaments. 
\cAo) -g^^- several of the colonies m North America prohibited 
their introduction. Massachusetts was the first State 
to encourage the slave trade, and the first slave ship 
was built at Marblehead in that State. William Penn also 
introduced slaves into Pennsylvania, and other colonies in 
turn admitted them. But the Georgia trustees prohibited 
slavery in their earliest laws. 

2. Although negro slaves were prohibited, white servants 
were allowed. These were brought over, and sold their serv- 
ices for a limited time, at the expiration of which they 
received a piece of land, and were thrown upon their own 
resources. But this servile condition of the whites displeased 
the Welsh, English, and Germans, who were employed as 
hired servants, and they became discontented. Hence, in 
June, 1735, a petition was sent to the trustees for the repeal 
of the law prohibiting negro slavery. But this petition was 
peremptorilly rejected. 

3. James Habersham, who became president of His Maj- 
esty's council in Georgia, and for a time Governor of the 
State, expressed himself heartily in favor of introducing slaves. 



32 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1738. 

It was argued that white men could not clear the immense 
tracts of dense forests; that sickness, fevers, and malaria were 
so prevalent that white servants and their employers could 
not work half the year. As a consequence many refused to 
work longer, and abandoned themselves to idleness. The 
lands remained uncleared and uncultivated. An idle, quar- 
reling crowd engaged in the town pursuing some handicraft 
or doing nothing at all. The silk, wine, and indigo business, 
and the lumber exportation was nearly abandoned. Several 
industrious families left the province and removed to South 
Carolina ; some went farther north, and others threatened to 
follow their example. 

4. For nearly fifteen years the trustees refused to listen to 
any propositions for the introduction of slaves. Petition after 
petition was sent, only to meet with a direct refusal. One of 
the magistrates wrote to Mr. Martyn, secretary of the trustees, 
that the whole inhabitants of Augusta ''declare that if they 
can not have slaves they will leave the colony." Every other 
colony in America had slaves, and Georgia was placed at a 
great disadvantage. 

5. Finally, with feelings of despair, the colonists drew up 
a petition in December, 1738, declaring that some change 
was necessary in the government, or the colony would inevi- 
tably go to ruin. They asked for ' ' the use of negroes with 
proper limitations." Counter-petitions were presented by the 
inhabitants of Darien and Ebenezer urgently requesting that 
no negroes be allowed in the colony, and stating that they 
were contented under the present form of laws, and wished 
no change. 

6. The trustees still refusing to change the law prohibit- 
ing slavery, a convention was called at Savannah to consider 
what was best to be done to alleviate the grievances of the 
colony. It was resolved to send an agent to the trustees, and 
Thomas Stephens, the son of the president, was chosen for 
that office. He started for England, and presented his peti- 



1749.] INTRODUCTION OF SLAVE LABOR. 83 

tion to the King, by whom it was referred to a committee of 
Parliament. 

7. The committee of ParHament approved the course the 
trustees were pursuing, and declared the colony of Georgia 
ungrateful and thankless to its benefactors. They agreed, 
however, to allow rum to be brought into the colony, and this 
stayed the general discontent for awhile. 

8. Notwithstanding the approval of Parliament, the trust- 
ees were sincerely desirous of doing the best for the colonists. 
But the continued petitions and complaints sent up to them, 
and the recent action of Parhament, decided them to take into 
consideration the expediency of allowing the slave trade. 
Accordingly they seriously debated the question, and after 
several years had elapsed sent an order to the president to in- 
quire among the people upon what terms and restrictions 
they were willing to accept them. A committee from the 
trustees was appointed, charged with a special duty to invest- 
igate the matter. 

9. Mr. Boltzius, of Ebenezer, wrote to the trustees, say- 
ing, that he and the Germans withdrew the objections they 
had made to the use of slaves. Rev. George Whitfield, who 
had tried the plan of negro slave labor on a plantation in 
South Carolina, wrote : ' ' That Georgia never can or will be 
a flourishing province without negroes are allowed." 

10. January lo, 1749, a meeting of the representatives of 
the colony was convened by order of the trustees. They 
passed several resolutions stating upon what condition they 
would like to have slaves among them: "The 'owners of 
slaves should educate the young, and use every possible means 
of making religious impressions upon the minds of the aged, 
and that all acts of inhumanity should be punished by the 
civil authorities." Major Horton, of Frederica, presided over 
this meeting, and soon after was seized by a malignant fever, 
and died in a few days. The colony lost in him one of its 
most upright and able supporters. 



34 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1749. 

11. The resolutions of the convention were read before the 
trustees, May 16, 1749, and after mature deliberation they re- 
solved to petition His Majesty "that the use of black slaves 
be allowed in the colony of Georgia." 

12. This petition was granted, and slaves by law were 
admitted into Georgia. The trustees, however, convened 
another meeting of the colony, and drew up a list of instruc- 
tions to insure a humane and proper treatment. This paper 
was signed October 26, 1749, and negro slaves were then 
made lawful property in Georgia. The conditions of slave- 
holding were, that the colony should keep the proper propor- 
tion of slaves to the whites ; to teach them no trade that would 
interfere with the white citizens; to prevent inhuman treat- 
ment; that they should not be worked on Sunday, with other 
safe restrictions. 

13. This beneficial course was soon apparent in the con- 
tentment and prosperity of the people. Inhabitants flocked 
in, the lands were cleared and cultivated, and in 1749 seven 
or eight vessels laden with produce were sent to England as 
the beginning of a better export trade. The number of the 
inhabitants in Georgia had now increased to fifteen hundred, 
and many were engaged in the cultivation of indigo, wine, 
silk, and rice. 




1 749-] THE PROGRESS OF THE COLONY. 35 




CHAPTER VIII. 

1749—1752. 

Thomas Bosomworth. — Meeting of General Assembly, — Resignation of Col- 
onel Stephens. — Henry Parker Appointed President. — Establishment of 
a Militia.— Quarrel between the Cherokees and Uchees. — Settlement of 
Liberty County.— The Trustees Surrender the Charter. 

HE colony was now, 1749, greatly harassed by the 
evil designs of Thomas Bosomworth, who had been 
sent by the trustees as minister among the Indians. 
'^ There he had married Mary Musgrove, the Creek 
princess who had acted as interpreter for Oglethorpe 
at Yamacraw, and up to this time continued friendly to the 
whites. 

2. Upon her marriage with Bosomworth, she was induced 
by him and several Indian chiefs to set up her claim as 
princess to several of the islands on the coast. Her claim 
being denied and refused by President Stephens, she col- 
lected a band of two hundred followers, and, with Bosom- 
worth, marched to Savannah and demanded the return of the 
granted lands, threatening immediate war in case of refusal. 

3. The presence of so large a body of infuriated savages 
filled the inhabitants with the greatest alarm. The miHtia 
was called out, and a bloody battle expected every moment, 
and only the coolness of President Stephens and the council 
averted the evil. Fortunately, Mary and her husband were 
caught and imprisoned. By friendly talks and promises the 
Indians were quieted, and the evil purposes of Mary explained 
to them. They at length expressed themselves satisfied, ac- 
knowledged Mary had deceived them, made friendship with 
the whites, and promised to return in. peace. Mary was set 



36 STUDENl 'S HISTOR Y OF GEOR GIA. [ 1 75 1 . 

at liberty, and with her followers left Savannah, August 19, 
1749. 

4. Bosom worth carried his claim to the English courts, 
but it was never settled. With his wife he moved out of the 
Creek nation, and settled upon Catharine Island. There 
they both died and were buried side by side on the sea-shore, 
and their graves can be seen at the present day. Their pre- 
tentions have always been called the "Bosomworth Claim." 

5. At this time the trustees saw the necessity of establish- 
ing a representative assembly to be held annually in Sa- 
vannah. Accordingly the first assembly was convened at Sa- 
vannah, January 15, 1751, and Francis Harris was chosen 
speaker. The assembly had no power to make laws for the 
colony, but only to present its wants to the president and 
trustees. 

6. After a full investigation by suitable committees, the 
following needs were determined upon, viz. : The want of a 
pilot-boat; leave to erect a building under the bluff for the 
convenience of boats' crews, negroes, etc. ; standard of 
weights and measures; an order to prevent the vessels from 
heaving their ballast into the river; commissioners for the 
regulation of pilots and pilotage; an inspector and sworn 
packer to inspect the produce of the colony; a clerk of the 
market; proper officers to command the mihtia; the repairs 
of the court-house. After a session of twenty-two days the 
assembly adjourned. Their powers were so limited that little 
good could be accomplished by their meeting, and this was 
their last session. 

7. Colonel William Stephens, the first president of Georgia, 
having served the colony for eight years, resigned his trust in 
May, 1 75 1. He was an old man, and his private griefs and 
public cares had disordered his mind; memory and reason 
failed him, and in August, 1753, he died. 

8. Henry Parker, the vice-president, acted as president 



I75I-] THE PROGRESS OF THE COLONY. 37 

after this resignation until he was appointed to that office. 
The place of secretary was supplied by James Habersham. 

9. In this year the original restrictions respecting the title 
of lands was removed, so that they could be held in fee simple 
or absolute title. This restriction had been a grievance to 
the colony, and its removal gave great satisfaction. 

10. The trustees proceeded at this date to the establish- 
ment and regulation of a miUtia for Georgia. Every man 
who possessed three hundred acres of land was ordered to 
appear for muster at a certain time and place on horseback, 
and those who owned less to appear on foot. A general 
meeting was held at Savannah, June 13, 1751, and Captain 
Noble Jones, a member of the council, was appointed to the 
command. 

11. This military preparation was considered necessary on 
account of the increasing depredations of the Cherokee and 
Uchee Indians, who had attacked the Quakers settled near 
Augusta and driven them from their homes. The inhabit- 
ants were much alarmed by the unfriendly demonstrations of 
their Indian neighbors. 

12. About this time a quarrel arose between the Cherokees 
and Uchees because a party of the former had attacked a 
Uchee camp and carried away provisions, women and chil- 
dren. When the robbery was discovered by the absent 
Uchees the marauders were pursued, overtaken, and several 
killed and wounded. The Uchees then came to Savannah 
and demanded arms and ammunition to carry on the war. 
But President Parker, wishing to preserve the strict neutrality 
of the colony in this trouble, gave them no help, and they 
went away with discontented looks. 

13. The next day the Cherokees and Notteweges were dis- 
covered four miles above Savannah, and at one o'clock of the 
same night a party of Uchees came and encamped upon Yam- 
acraw Bluff. There they were attacked by the Cherokees, 

4 



38 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1752. 

and a Uchee Indian stabbed through the heart. Savannah 
momentarily expected an Indian assault, and the greatest 
anxiety prevailed. But the belligerent parties withdrew, still 
vowing vengeance upon each other. 

M. During the year 1752 a number of persons came from 
Dorchester, in South Carolina, and settled at Midway. It 
was the emigration of a fine body of steady Puritans. They 
had applied for and obtained a grant of thirty-one thousand 
nine hundred and fifty acres of land on the Ogeechee River. 
These Puritans had come from the southern part of England, 
and had sailed for the New England States, but the captain 
of their ship landed them in the wilderness of Nantucket 
Points, where they suffered many hardships. A home was 
offered to them in South Carolina, and December 5, 1695, 
they sailed from New England and settled upon the Ashley 
River, and from thence, in a few years, found their way to 
Georgia. 

15. The charter of Georgia had been given for a term of 
twenty-one years, and the time of its expiration was close at 
hand. The trustees, weary of their charge, refused to have 
the charter renewed, and resolved to surrender their trust. 

16. A committee was appointed to arrange all matters, 
the Earl of Shaftsbury being chairman. They presented a 
memorial to the lords of the council, formally surrendering 
their right to the government of the province of Georgia, and 
recommending that measures be adopted for its future sup- 
port. 

17. This memorial was signed and delivered December 19, 
1 75 1. The council, by appropriate resolutions, returned 
thanks to the trustees for the manner in which they had man- 
aged the colony, and granted certain privileges to be still ex- 
ercised over Georgia, which they accepted and used for a year 
and a half. 

18. The last meeting of the trustees was held April 29, 



I750.] THE PROGRESS OF THE COLONY. 39 

1752. Every account was settled, every claim decided, and, 
by voluntary surrender of their charter, these philanthropists 
gave up their control of Georgia, and the territory passed 
under the royal government direct. 

19. The trustees had been seventy-two in number, and a 
majority were noblemen of high rank : several had been em- 
inent divines, others lawyers and members of Parliament. 
During the twenty-one years they had received no remunera- 
tions, but every act had been prompted by philanthropy. 
Only six of the original number remained at the surrender of 
the charter. The government of Great Britain resumed di- 
rect control of the greatly increased colony^ and a new period 
in Georgia history is reached. 

20. A survey of the country at large at this period, 1750, 
shows that while the English were pressing colonies along the 
Atlantic coast down to the St. Mary's River, the Spanish were 
entering the valley of the Mississippi as well as Florida, 
while the French were descending from the great lakes into 
the interior. Conflicts were inevitable. The EngUsh colo- 
nies claimed the entire region that swept from their frontier 
on the Atlantic Ocean westward, and the French were invad- 
ing this claim. The great French and Indian war followed. 
It involved all the colonies, and was attended with many of 
the incidents of savage warfare. In this war George Washing- 
ton, then but twenty-two years of age, distinguished himself, 
and gave the early promise of his subsequent patriotic career. 
At first the war was conducted by Virginia and the other col- 
onists, until, in 1756, a formal declaration of war was made by 
Great Britain against France. Little success followed the 
first efforts of the EngHsh, but in 1758 a more vigorous policy 
prevailed, and briUiant victories were won. 

21. The progress of the war eventually involved the Caro- 
linas, near Georgia, through the hostilities of the Cherokees, 
which broke out in 1760. Expeditions against them were 
sent out under Montgomery and Grant, in which Moultrie and 



40 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1754. 



Marion served, and the Indians brought to terms of peace. 
Finally a treaty was made between England and France in 
1763, in which France yielded all her claims in North 
America lying east of the Mississippi River. Spain also 
made peace with Great Britain, and gave up her possessions 
of East and West Florida. 




[754-] ADMINISTRATION OF REYNOLDS. 41 



CHAPTER IX. 

1754-1757. 

New Form of Government. — Governor Reynolds. — Colonial Seal. — Execu- 
tive, Legislative, and Judiciary Departments.— First Legislature of 
Georgia. — Governor Reynolds' Tour Through the Southern Parts of 
Georgia. — Plan of Defense.— Roman Catholics. — Trouble with Assem- 
bly.— William Little.— Dissatisfaction with Governor Reynolds.— His 
Return to England. 

^jT^FTER the resignation of the trustees, Georgia was left 
^^^ in an ahnost unprotected condition, and without a due 
'^^-^ form of government until October, 1754, a period of 
two years and five months. Meanwhile the colony was gov- 
erned by President Parker and his assistants, and also by 
Patrick Graham, the last president of the colony. It was 
a period of great anxiety to the colonists, for they were in 
continual peril from the Indians, pressed by poverty, and 
neglected by the royal government, in whose care they had 
fallen by the withdrawal of the trustees. 

2. The lords of the Council at length saw the necessity 
of taking measures to govern the colony, and ordered the 
lords commissioners of trade and plantation affairs to draw 
up a plan of government. The report of the commissioners 
was made March 5, 1754, and recommended that the govern- 
ment of Georgia be like that of the other colonies in America, 
with a governor, a legislative assembly, and courts of judica- 
ture. They also recommended that the governor be vice- 
admiral, with all the powers generally attached to that office; 
that officers be appointed for the collection of customs and 
duties, regulation of quit-rents and grants of land; that a 
secretary, attorney-general, and provost-marshal be appointed 
to assist the governor. 



42 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1754. 

3. The plan proposed was approved. According to the 
nomination of the lords commissioners, August 6, 1754, 
Captain John Reynolds, of the royal navy, was appointed 
by the King, governor of Georgia. 

4. The King ordered a seal to be made for the colony. 
This was done June 21, 1754. It was made of silver, and 
bore on one side a figure representing the genius of the 
colony presenting a skein of silk to the King, with the 
motto, '' Hinc laudcin spcrate coloni;'' and on the circum- 
ference of the same side the words, '^ Sigillum Frovinciae 
nostrae Gcorgiae in America.'''' On the other side of the 
seal were placed His Majesty's crown and garter, with the 
inscription, ^^ Georgins II. Dei Gi'atia Magnae Britanniae 
Fr. et Hih. Rex Fidei Defensor Brunsiuici et Lunenbergi 
Dux Sacri Roniani Imperii Archi Thesaurarius et Elector ^ 

5. Governor Reynolds landed in Georgia, October 29, 
1754, and was welcomed by the people. 

6. Taking at once the oath of office, he was by title pro- 
claimed "Captain-General and Governor-in-Chief of His Maj- 
esty's Province of Georgia, and Vice-Admiral of the same." 
By courtesy he was termed "His Excellency." After the 
ceremony of installation, which occurred when he landed, the 
new governor and his officers were entertained at a public 
dinner. Thus passed auspiciously the first day of the new 
government. 

7. Captain John Reynolds was the first governor of Georgia 
appointed by the King. James Habersham was appointed 
secretary, and William Clifton, attorney-general. The gov- 
ernor had entire command of the militia, the power of con- 
vening and dissolving the assembly at will, and of vetoing 
any bill. 

8. The legislative assembly was composed of two distinct 
bodies. The smaller body, called the Upper House, was con- 
stituted of the governor's council, generally about twelve in 



I755-] ADMINISTRATION OF REYNOLDS. 43 

number, and appointed by the King. They formed a branch 
of the legislature similar to the present senate, but were also 
the governor's privy council, and with him exercised large 
judicial powers. The more numerous branch, called the 
Commons House of Assembly, consisted of nineteen mem- 
bers, and represented the people from the different parts 
of the colony. Patrick Graham, the last president of the 
colony, was chosen president of the Upper House, and 
David Douglas, of Augusta, district speaker of the Com- 
mons House. The governor, with the two houses of assem- 
bly, were the legislative power of Georgia. 

9. The first efforts of the new governor were directed 
toward constituting a proper judiciary for the colony. Courts 
of record were created in 1755, by the letters patent of the 
King, called the General Courts of the Province of Georgia. 
Two judges, Noble Jones and Jonathan Bryan, were ap^ 
pointed to hold office during the pleasure of the King. They 
were to hold quarterly terms at Savannah, in January, April, 
July, and October. They had jurisdiction in treasons, felo- 
nies, and all criminal offenses committed in Georgia. They 
were also granted ample jurisdiction in civil cases, having 
full power to try and bring to final execution all causes, 
suits, and actions where the sum demanded should exceed 
forty shillings, except where a freehold title should be in 
issue. 

10. A court of chancery was afterwards organized, the 
governor being chancellor; also a court of oyer and terminer 
as a special criminal court, to sit twice each year. 

11. The first legislative assembly of Georgia met in Savan- 
nah, January 7, 1755, and organized as already stated. Gov- 
ernor Reynolds addressed them in a speech, asking their 
earnest assistance in the government of the colony. His 
address was warmly received, and indorsed by both houses, 
and his administration promised their hearty support. 

12. The assembly passed twelve acts, all of which were 



44 STUDEXT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1755. 

approved by the governor. Among these was one for stamp- 
ing credit bills to the amount of three thousand pounds 
sterling, which should be legal tender in the colony. The 
growing commerce demanded this financial measure, and it 
was passed over the opposition of the lords commissioners. 
The assembly, after a session of two months, adjourned to 
meet again the following year. 

13. After the adjournment. Governor Reynolds went on 
a tour of inspection through the south of the colony. He 
visited Frederica, but that city, once lovely, was almost in 
ruins. He journeyed up the Ogeechee River, and found a 
beautiful situation for a town, which he laid off, and named 
Hardwicke, after the earl of that name. Here he proposed 
to locate the capital of Georgia, because he thought the 
place more central and beautiful than Savannah. The ques- 
tion of the removal of the capital was agitated, but no final 
decision of the question was reached just then. 

14. The defenseless state of the colony early attracted the 
attention of Governor Reynolds. Savannah and Augusta 
were inadequately defended by rotten forts, rusty guns, and 
raw militia, while Frederica, the most exposed of the three, 
was without defense. 

15. There were only eight hundred men in the whole 
colony capable of bearing arms, and these were untrained 
and poorly armed. Governor Reynolds devoted his atten- 
tion to the subject, and drew up a plan of fortification. He 
recommended to the lords of trade a vigorous plan of de- 
fense along the coast and southern frontier. But his rec- 
ommendation was postponed from time to time, and the 
colony left to self-protection. 

16. To conciliate the Indian tribes. Governor, Reynolds 
appointed a meeting with them at Augusta, where he went 
in December. He remained ten days, but the Indians 
did not meet him. He therefore left his presents and his 



1757.] ADMINISTRATION OF ELLIS. 45 

speeches with WiUiam Little, an Indian agent, and returned 
to Savannah. 

17. When he arrived he found a body of four hundred 
French Roman CathoHcs landed at the bluff in a destitute 
condition, and asking admittance into the colony. Governor 
Reynolds gave them homes in different parts of the colony, 
clothed and fed them until the next spring, when they de- 
parted. 

18. From this time the pleasant relations of Governor 
Reynolds with the colony underwent an unfavorable change. 
The assembly met according to adjournment, January, 1756. 
On account of certain contested elections, several newly 
elected members were refused seats in the commons house, 
much against the advice of the governor. Hence the house 
was adjourned by him until February 12, 1756, to consider 
the matter. On reassembling they adhered to the original 
action, and when the governor sent in a message to adjourn 
them again, the house made violent demonstration of resent- 
ment. The5^ ''confined the speaker to his chair, forced him 
to sign a paper, while some private members seized upon the 
minutes and made such alterations as they pleased." These 
proceedings widened the breach between the house and the 
governor, and caused him formally to dissolve the assembly, 
February 19, 1756. 

19. After much complaint on the part of the colonists, 
and bad conduct on the part of Governor Reynolds, an 
order for his return was obtained from the board of trade 
in England, August 5, 1756. Accordingly he waited until 
the newly appointed governor should arrive, and then deliver- 
ing the colony into his hands, he embarked for England. 

20. Here he arrived in July, 1757, and made his defense 
before the lords of the council, but it was declared an in- 
sufficient answer to the accusations made against him. The 
privilege- was, however, granted him of returning to the navy, 
from whence he had been called. 



40 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1757. 




CHAPTER X. 

1757—1761. 

Arrival of Governor Ellis. — Provision for Defense. — Colony Divided into Par- 
ishes. — New Hanover. — Trouble with the Indians. — Montgomery's Cam- 
paign.— Grant's Campaign.— Ellis Returns to Europe.— Dies in Italy. 

fj(ff^ENRY ELLIS, who had been appointed Ueutenant- 
^overnor of Georgia, had distinguished himself as a 
daring and skillful navigator in a voyage of discov- 
ery in the Pacific. His researches had proven of so much 
importance to science, and his account so well received that 
he was elected a fellow of the Royal Society just before his 
appointment as lieutenant-governor of Georgia. 

2. He arrived at Savannah, February 16, 1757, where he 
was met and enthusiastically welcomed by the inhabitants 
with addresses and congratulations. He immediately waited 
upon Ex-Governor Reynolds, and was conducted to the coun- 
cil chamber, where he was duly installed into his office. 

3. The first care of Governor Ellis was to provide for the 
defense of the still unprotected colony, and obtained five 
hundred stand of arms and a ship of war to protect the 
coast. He tried by justice and moderation to heal the dis- 
content that his predecessor had caused. He made inquiry 
into the state of all the departments of the government, and 
recommended the appointment of a chief justice for the col- 
ony. He visited the southern frontier, and favored the re- 
moval of the capital from Savannah to Hardwicke. 

4. When the assembly met, June 16, 1757, the governor 
made an opening speech full of earnest appeal, declaring that 
he entered upon his administration with disinterested motives, 
and felt the warmest interest in the welfare of the colony. 



1 759-1 ADMINISTRATION OF ELLIS. 47 

He ended by saying, that "if my wishes and endeavors prove 
fruitless I shall be the first to solicit my recall." 

5. Among the bills passed by this legislature was one offer- 
ing the province of Georgia as a home for insolvent debtors. 
Another act was to provide for the building of log forts and 
for the discipline of the miUtia. 

6. The Georgia colony was now, in 1758, divided into 
eight parishes, viz.: Christ Church parish, including Savannah; 
St. Matthews' parish, including Abercorn and Ebenezer; St. 
George's parish, including Halifax; St. Paul's parish, includ- 
ing Augusta; St. Philip's, including Great Ogeechee; St. 
John's, including Midway and Sunbury ; St. Andrews', includ- 

. ing Darien ; and St. James', including Frederica. These di- 
visions were made in order to facilitate and better regulate 
the government of the colony. The law also provided for 
the holding of public worship in all these parishes. 

7. In 1758 the exports of the colony were twenty-five 
thousand pounds of indigo and fifty-five hogsheads of rice, 
and a proportion of the other articles grown in the colony. 
May 17, 1758, Lieutenant-Governor Ellis received his com- 
mission as governor-in-chief of the colony of Georgia, ai'f 
honor his persistent efforts and arduous service had won for 
him. 

8. Art illegal setdement was begun between the Altamaha 
and St. John's Rivers, called New Hanover, the inhabitants of 
which denied the authority of the Georgia government. 
They recognized no laws, and were looked upon as a band 
of marauders. Orders were sent down by the governor for 
them to disband, which they did, March 6, 1759, and distrib- 
uted themselves over the colony. 

9. The next thing that engaged the attention of the gov- 
ernor was the troubles arising between the colonists and the 
Indians. The English had attacked several of the French 
strongholds on the Ohio River, and a party of Virginians had 



48 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1760. 

Stolen some horses of the Cherokees, arousing the hostility of 
both French and Indians. 

10. Fort Loudon, on the Tennessee River, was surrounded 
by the Indians, several excursion parties killed, and the sup- 
plies of the fort cut off. The Indians even penetrated to 
Fort Prince George, on the Savannah River, near the town of 
Keowee, above Augusta. Here a partial treaty of peace was 
formed, and the Indians surrendered thirty-two of their chiefs 
as hostages. These were taken into the fort and confined in 
a close prison. 

11. Soon the Indians again opened hostilities. Captain 
Cotymore, who commanded Fort Prince George, tried to 
pacify them, but to no purpose. Pretending to make peace, 
they lured Captain Cotymore and several officers to a treaty 
just outside the fort. Falling upon these they murdered 
and scalped them mercilessly. This exasperated the sol- 
diers of the fort, who fell upon the unfortunate Indian pris- 
oners, and in an equally barbarous manner avenged the death 
of their friends. The whole Cherokee nation then rose in 
arms to avenge the death of their chiefs. 

12. Armed with scalping-knife, club, and fire-brand, they 
rushed upon the outskirt towns, killing men, women, and chil- 
dren. Some fled to the woods, to die of hunger and cold; 
others were taken prisoners, to die of cruel tortures. 

13. MiUtary aid was sent from the North. Colonel Mont- 
gomery was appointed in command, and in April, 1760, he 
landed in South Carolina, and collecting all the forces marched 
immediately against the Cherokees. At Keowee every Indian 
man, woman, and child was put to death, and the town 
burned to the ground. He found Estatoe abandoned by the 
Indians, but well stocked with corn and other army supplies. 
This he also reduced to ashes, and marched to the relief of 
Fort Prince George. 

14. Here he rested until June, and then marched against 



i76o.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF EILIS. 



49 



Etchoe, and found an immense body of savages concealed 
in a thicket just outside the town, and a heavy fight com- 
menced. The battle lasted several hours. The Indians find- 
ing themselves almost surrounded, began to retreat. Colonel 
Montgomery pressed them on the rear and slew many of 
them, but deemed it imprudent to pursue 
them far. He then returned to Savan- 
nah, having lost about forty men. 

15. The garrison of Loudon had suf- 
fered great hardship. For a month they 
were without regular provisions, and 
subsisted upon the flesh of starved dogs 
and horses. In despair they surren- 
dered the fort to the Indians, and march- 
ed out, August yth, 1760, on condition 
that the soldiers be escorted to Fort 
Prince George. They traveled fifteen 
miles the first day and encamped. Dur- 
ing the night their Indian guides sud- 
denly left, and the signs indicated foul 
play. Next morning a deadly fire from 

a large body of hidden Indians was poured upon the unpro- 
tected men from all sides. Captain Demere and twenty-six 
men were killed at the first fire. Then the Indians seized 
the soldiers, butchered some, took the rest prisoners, and 
returned to Fort Loudon. 

16. Among the prisoners was Captain Stewart, who fortu- 
nately escaped from their hands by the friendship of one of 
the Indian chiefs. Thereupon he immediately sent word to 
different parts of Georgia and South Carolina to inform the 
people of their danger. Augusta was secured as well as pos- 
sible, while Fort Prince George was garrisoned and provis- 
ioned for a ten weeks' siege. 

17. Colonel Grant was next ordered to the relief of the col- 
onies. Two thousand 'six hundred men were collected for the 

5 




Indian Warrior. 



50 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1761. 

war. With these he resolved to bring the Indians to terms. 
Colonel Grant was accustomed to Indian warfare; he had 
been several years in that service, and had great quickness of 
eye and knowledge of Indian cunning. 

18. In the spring he began his march, and, May 27, 1761, 
arrived at Fort Prince George. 

19. On the 7th of June, Colonel Grant left Fort Prince 
George, exercising the greatest vigilance. June 10, 1761, 
there were signs of the presence of the savages. The men 
were ordered to be ready for battle and to march slowly. 
About the same place where Colonel Montgomery had a fight 
the year before a large body of painted Cherokees were de- 
scried on a hill, and a still larger number just over the river. 
The signal being given, the Indians rushed down the hill upon 
the advance and delivered a heavy fire; but after a short 
engagement they were repulsed, and re-formed on the hill. 
The Indians on the river bank began firing also, and Colonel 
Grant faced his troops to return the fire, while he ordered a 
detachment to drive the enemy from the heights. This force 
attacked the hill with much spirit, but the Indians fought ob- 
stinately. Being dislodged several times, they returned with 
renewed ardor and retook their position. But after six hours 
fighting the Indians gave way under a determined attack and 
retreated. The slain, about sixty in number, were hastily 
sunk in the river for burial, and the main body moved in 
pursuit of the defeated enemy. 

20. About midnight they reached Etchoe, a large town, 
and reduced it to ashes. Several other towns, fourteen in 
number, shared the same fate, and the Indians having lost 
their homes and provisions, fled to the mountains to subsist on 
roots and acorns during a cold winter. Colonel Grant re- 
turned to Fort Prince George^ and camped to rest his troops 
from their long march and continued watching 

21. After several weeks Attakullakulla came to the camp 



1761.] ADMINISTRA TION OF ELLIS. 51 

of Colonel Grant, and with several chiefs expressed his desire 
for peace. They were now willing to accept any terms of 
capitnlation. Accordingly a treaty was made on terms cred- 
itable to Colonel Grant and satisfactory to the Indians. Thus 
ended the Indian war that was the characteristic feature in the 
administration of Governor Ellis. 

22. The chmate of Georgia had a bad effect upon Governor 
Ellis, and his health gave way. In November, 1759, he 
asked for a recall, which was granted, and James Wright ap- 
pointed in his place. Governor Ellis, on account of the de- 
layed arrival of his successor, was compelled to pass another 
year in Georgia, and did not leave until November 2, 1760. 

23. Ex-Governor EHis then took a tour through the North- 
ern States, and was welcomed everywhere. In April, 1761, 
he was appointed governor of Nova Scotia, which place he 
held three years. Returning to Europe, he settled in France, 
and in 1805 went to Naples for his health, where he died. 
He was a great and good man, beloved by many, revered and 
honored by all. 



52 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1760. 




CHAPTER XI. 

1760—1765. 

Arrival of Governor Wright.— Improvements.— Death of King George. — 
Condition of the State.— Troubles with Chief-Justice Grover.— Treaty at 
Augusta.— Extension of Georgia Boundary Line.— Beginning of the 
Revolution.— The Stamp Act.— Dismissal of Knox.— Disturbance at 
Savannah. 

lEUT.-GOVERNOR JAMES WRIGHT arrived in 
Georgia, October 11, 1760. He was the third and 
last governor under the British crown. He was 
born in South Carohna, and received his educa- 
tion in England. He had practiced law in Charleston until 
the time of his appointment as governor of Georgia. On 
his arrival he found the colony in a languishing condition, 
and took vigorous measures toward its restoration. He rec- 
ommended measures for fortifying Savannah. The finances 
were in a bad condition, and, as a measure of relief, the 
governor put in circulation bills of credit to the amount of 
^£7,410. Thirty-seven vessels were freighted in one year 
after this, and the rice plantations were reclaimed from the 
swamps. 

2. The scheme of removing the seat of government, which 
had received the support of both Reynolds and ElHs, was 
discouraged by Governor Wright, and the project was aban- 
doned. The Island of Cockspur was then fortified as neces- 
sary to protect the channel. At the same time Sunbury, 
at the head of St. Catherine's Sound, was declared a port 
of entry. 

3. George II., who had been King of England up to this 
time, died October 25, 1760. When the news reached 







o 



Y ^^ 



1760.] ADMINISTRATION OF WRIGHT. 53 

Georgia, proper funeral services were held, and the assem- 
bly was dissolved. On the next day the ceremony of pro- 
claiming the new King, George III., was held with great mili- 
tary and civil pomp. 

4. Governor Wright reported the condition of the colony, 
in 1760, as favorable. Forty-one vessels were entered at the 
custom-house. The population was 6,100 whites and 3,600 
blacks; in all, 9,700. There were yet no manufactories; agri- 
culture occupied the people's attention. The export of rice 
was 3,400 pounds, that being the principal article of com- 
merce. The general export trade increased every year, and 
was reported a short while after this as amounting to ^27,000, 
or about $130,000. Supplies of wine, silks, Hnens, woolens, 
shoes, stockings, nails, etc., were imported from Great Brit- 
ain. The colonists planted rice, indigo, corn, pease, wheat, 
and rye. They also made tar, pitch, turpentine, shingles, 
and staves; and raised mules, horses, and hogs. The people 
were contented, and generally prosperous. 

5. The administration of Governor Wright had been wise, 
zealous, and popular. For his energy and worth, Lieuten- 
ant-Governor Wright was honored by the King with the title 
of Captain-General and Commander-in-Chief of the forces in 
Georgia. The news produced great rejoicing in Savannah. 
The militia, under Colonel Jones, paraded with great dis- 
play before the governor's house, and fired a salute of three 
volleys, which was answered from Halifax fort and the ships 
in the harbor. 

6. Governor Wright had identified himself with Georgia 
and endeared himself to the people, but troubles soon arose. 
The first was with Chief-Justice Grover, who opposed the gov- 
ernor's administration. Grover absented himself from the 
council and neglected his judicial duties. The council de- 
clared his conduct ''dishonorable, partial, arbitrary, illegal, 
indecent," and recommended his removal. The board of 
trade in England accordingly dismissed him, in 1763. Thus 



54 STUDENT' S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1763. 

Reynolds, the first governor, and Grover, the first chief-justice, 
were pronounced unfit for their respective offices. 

7. The next trouble that met Governor Wright was the un- 
settled state of Indian affairs. The Creeks and Cherokees had 
been tampered with by the French agents from Mobile, and 
instigated to several acts of rebellion. 

8. Governor Wright sent these tribes messages to meet him 
in Augusta. At the appointed time about seven hundred men 
of the Catawbas, Cherokees, Choctaws, Chickasaws, and 
Creeks assembled at Augusta. Governor Wright, of Georgia ; 
Governor Boone, of South Carolina; Governor Dobbs, of 
North Carolina; Governor Fauquier, of Virginia, and Cap- 
tain John Stewart, met them. Captain Stewart addressed 
them with friendly words and assurances. He promised them 
forgiveness of past offenses, plenty of goods, protection and 
peace. 

9. After a day's deliberation the Indians yielded to the 
whites a tract of territory in payment of their various debts. 
The peace was signed November 10, 1763, and the council 
broke up, saluted by the guns from the Augusta forts. 

10. About this time a treaty was concluded between Great 
Britain and France, prescribing the middle of the Mississippi 
River as the western limit of the State of Georgia and of the 
British possessions. Also it was stipulated between Great 
Britain and Spain that Florida should be given up to the Brit- 
ish. By these means the limifs of Georgia w^ere extended 
from the Atlantic down to the St. Mary's River on the south, 
and from the Savannah River to the Mississippi on the west. 
The Spaniards were removed from Florida and the French 
from Mobile and vicinity, while a firm treaty was made with 
the Indians. 

11. In 1765, four additional parishes were added to the 
number existing. These parishes were called St. Patrick's, 
St. Thomas', St. David's, and St. Mary's, and were between 



1765.] ' ADMINISTRATION OF WRIGHT. 65 

the Altamaha and St. Mary's Rivers. Quiet was restored in 
all the borders of Georgia; peace and prosperity reigned. 
But the peace was destined to be soon broken. 

12. The French and Indian war, in which Great Britain 

had been engaged principally for the sake of the colonies, had 
cast the government into heavy debt. The British ministry 
urged that the American colonies having caused the war must 
bear its expenses. Accordingly they resorted to a system of 
heavy taxation upon colonial imports and exports. 

13. But the colonies, being without representation in Par- 
liament, indignantly denied the power of Great Britain to 
levy this heavy tax upon them without their consent. 

14. In March, 1765, an act was passed in Parliament 
known as "The Stamp Act," requiring all papers, bonds, 
deeds, etc., to have stamps upon them. This act caused 
great excitement and indignation throughout America. The 
assembly of Virginia sent a spirited remonstrance to the Brit- 
ish ministry, and this was soon followed by similar resolutions 
from other colonies. The assembly of Massachusetts called 
for a general congress to meet in New York on the first 
Tuesday in October, 1765. 

15. Georgia was prevented by Governor Wright from send- 
ing delegates to this congress, although a meeting was held 
in Savannah, September 2, 1765, and a cooperative reply 
sent to the Massachusetts resolution. When the general as- 
sembly of Georgia convened in 1765, to such a height had 
the excitement risen that William Knox, a joint agent for 
Georgia and South Carolina in Great Britain, was dismissed 
from that office because he issued a publication siding with 
the King. 

16. October 26, 1765, Governor Wright ordered a general 
gathering of the people to commemorate His Majesty's acces- 
sion to the throne. A large crowd gathered, but instead of 
rejoicing they paraded the streets with noise and excitement, 



56 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1765. 



threatened the governor, and, making effigies of obnoxious 
persons, burned them with mocking insult. The remon- 
strances of the governor were unheeded by the people, for 
their spirit of revolt was aroused. These were the initial 
steps of Georgia in her Revolutionary history. 




[765.] BEGINNING OF REVOIUTION. 57 



CHAPTER XII. 

1765—1772. 

Arrival of the Speedwell. — Agnus. — Appearance of Armed Forces at Savan- 
nah.— Use of the Stamps to Clear the Harbor.— Repeal of the Stamp 
Act. — Peace. — Benjamin Franklin Appointed Agent. — Meetings at Sa- 
vannah. — Wright Goes to England. — Habersham Acts as Governor. 



HE offensive Stamp Act was to take effect November 
I, 1765, but various causes prevented the arrival of 
the papers in Georgia. December 5th, His Majesty's 
ship Speedwell, having on board the stamped papers, appeared 
at the mouth of the Savannah River. A scout-boat was dis- 
patched, and Agnus, the stamp distributor, was brought 
secretly to the house of the governor, where he took the re- 
quired oath. After staying several days in Georgia, guarded 
with great secrecy, he left in fear of the people's indignation. 

2. The whole colony was becoming aroused. Governor 
Wright received menacing leiters; James Habersham, presi- 
dent of the council, was waylaid at night, mistreated and 
driven for protection to the governor's guarded mansion. 
The Speedwell still remained in harbor. Toward the end of 
January a body of six hundred men assembled at Savannah 
and told Governor Wright that unless the stamps were re- 
moved they would attack his house and the fort, and destroy 
them, with the stamped papers. Governor Wright hastened to 
transfer the papers to Fort George, on Cockspur Island, and 
after a few days they were again removed to the Speedwell for 
greater safety. 

3. The general excitement continued unabated. A body 
of rangers, two hundred in all, appeared in Savannah with 
threatening aspect. Governor Wright ordered out the militia, 



58 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GE0RGL4. [1766. 

and the marines from the Speedwell. An engagement was 
imminent. That night a riotous procession was formed, and 
an effigy of the Governor was burned, holding in his hand one 
of his offensive circulars. 

4. When the papers arrived there were seventy ships in the 
harbor waiting for clearance. The colonists were compelled 
to use the stamps to clear the harbor, but they used them im- 
peratively and for no other purpose. This aroused the wrath 
of South Carolina, and all intercourse with the two States 
was forbidden for a time. 

5. February 22, 1766, the offensive act was repealed by 
Parliament, and peace and order restored in the turbulent 
colonies. Governor Wright's position had been a trying one, 
but he had acted with loyalty to his sovereign, which the 
threats of the mob could not shake or danger of his life 
affect. 

6. Quiet and harmony being restored in Georgia, the as- 
sembly met July 16, 1766, and the governor congratulated 
them and the State upon having received no injuries, and that 
the people had not yet gone beyond British good-will. The 
assembly returned a loyal answer respectful to the King, and 
declaring that they were dutiful subjects so long as their 
rights and liberties were not invaded. 

7. In 1766, one hundred and seventy-one vessels entered 
the Savannah harbor, having increased one hundred and 
forty in six years. Silk-growing reached this year (1766) its 
highest success. The colony produced 20,000 pounds of 
cocoons. General agriculture was still sufficient to supply 
the colony, and little industries were on the increase. The 
population had also increased to 18,000 black and white. 
There were 1,800 effective militia. The colony had increased 
tenfold in the last six years. Under the wise control of a good 
governor it was making rapid strides of progress. 

8. But this period of quiet, like all others preceding it, was 



[768.] 



BE GINNING OF RE VOL UTION. 



59 



only a temporary repose. The repeal of the Stamp Act was 
followed by the passage of the MiHtary Act, which provided 
for the raising and quartering of a large body of troops among 
the colonists, and gave great offense. January 7, 1767, Gov- 
ernor Wright received a demand for barracks to accommodate 
a body of British soldiers, which he laid before the general 



assembly. That body in- 
dignantly refused the de- 
mand, declaring that they 
"humbly conceive their 
complying with the requi- 
sition would be a violation 
of the trust reposed in them 
by their constituents, and 
founding a precedent they 
by no means think them- 
selves justifiable in intro- 
ducing." The difficulty 
was prudendy adjusted 
and the excitement sub- 
sided. 




Benjamin Franklin. 



9. In April, 1768, Benjamin Franklin was appointed agent 
for Georgia at the court of Great Britain. He was a man of 
strong mind, great integrity, and adopted a judicious course 
gready benefiting the colony. February, 1768, the speaker of 
the house of assembly of Masachusetts addressed a letter to the 
speaker of the house in Georgia, proposing the union of the 
colonies in a general congress. Although the house was not 
in session, the speaker, Alexander Wyley, replied with assur- 
ance that Georgia was in sympathy with the scheme; that the 
letter would be laid before the assembly as soon as it met. 
This action of Wyley gave offense to Governor Wright. 

10. November, 1768, the assembly met, and chose Noble 
Wimberly Jones as speaker. Near the close of the session 
the letter from Massachusetts was laid before the house by 



60 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1769. 

Alexander Wyley, and also a letter from Peyton Randolph, 
of Virginia. The house adopted resolutions indorsing the 
sentiments of the letters, and declaring that they ' ' tend to a 
justifiable union of subjects aggrieved." Governor Wright 
mmedately dissolved the assembly, declaring that '' if America 
was to become independent, from that day you may date 
your ruin and misery." 

11. At this session an address was sent by the house to 
their agent, Benjamin Franklin, who delivered it to the King. 
But this, as indeed every overture from the colony, w^as 
treated with contempt. The grievances of which they com- 
plained were disregarded, and the English government grew 
deaf to every appeal and remonstrance. 

12. In 1770 the Boston massacre occurred. A quarrel be- 
tween the military and citizens arose, in which the soldiers 
fired upon the people, killed three, and wounded several. 
This aroused the indignation of the people in all the colo- 
nies, in which Georgia warmly shared. A rupture between 
the colonies and the mother country was imminent. 

13. The colonists determined to discontinue all commercial 
intercourse with Great Britain. To that end a meeting of 
citizens was held in Savannah, at the house of Alexander 
Creighton, and, September 16, 1769, a resolution was passed 
declaring that "any person or persons whatsoever importing 
any of the articles subject to duties, after having it in their 
power to prevent it, ought not only to be treated with con- 
tempt, but deemed an enemy to their country." 

M. Jonathan Bryan, a member of the governor's council, 
took a prominent part in these meetings, and was expelled. 
He was the first object of British vengeance in Georgia dur- 
ing the Revolution. 

15. July 2, 1 77 1, Governor Wright called his council to- 
gether, and told them he had His Majesty's consent for his 
return to England. Accordingly he left Savannah, July 10, 



I77I-] 



BEGINNING OF REVOLUTION. 



61 



and was absent from Georgia a year and a half. James Hab- 
ersham, president of the council, entered upon the office of 
governor during Wright's 
absence. This was a try- 
ing position for Haber- 
sham. He sympathized 
with the colonists, and 
thought them much ag- 
grieved, but was com- 
pelled to act under the 
royal orders and obey the 
royal wishes.. 

16. Prior to his de- 
parture. Governor Wright 
had successively dis-i 
solved several meetings 
of the general assembly. 
In consequence of some 
disorder. Governor Hab- 
ersham again dissolved 
the assembly. These re- 
peated dissolutions had caused grievous injuries to the finan- 
cial, judicial, and various other interests of the colony, and it 
was now rapidly becoming in a deplorable condition. 

6 




James Habersham, 



62 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1773. 




CHAPTER XIII. 

1773—1775. 

Governor Wright Returns to Georgia.— Treaty with the Indians.— 
Boston Port Bill. — Meeting at Savannah. — Meeting of the Adherents to 
the Crown. — Liberty Boys. — Meeting of Provincial Congress.— General 
Assembly. — Lyman Hall Goes to Congress. — Powder Magazine. — Coun- 
cil of Safety Elected. — Letter Intercepted in South Carolina. — Hopkins 
and Brown Tarred and Feathered. 

I OVERNOR WRIGHT returned to Savannah, Feb- 
f' ruary, 1773, having been absent nineteen months. 
He was created a baron while in England, and 
treated with great respect. His course of loyalty to 
the King impressed even the colonists, and they 
greatly respected him, though he was the instrmiient 
of their oppression. 

2. On his return, attention to Indian affairs became im- 
perative. He therefore met the chiefs of several Indian 
tribes at Augusta, and obtained from them the territory em- 
bracing the present counties of Wilkes, Taliaferro, Greene, 
Elbert, Oglethorpe, and Lincoln — about 2,100,000 acres in 
all. This was in payment of a debt of $2,000,000 which 
the Indians had contracted with the traders. 

3. The treacherous Indians soon afterwards committed at- 
tacks upon several border setUements, and accordingly Gov- 
ernor Wright requested another meeting with the Creeks, 
October, 1774, in Savannah, where a friendly alliance was 
once more made. The political turmoil then existing pre- 
vented a due setdement of the just claims of many of the 
traders, and minor troubles of this kind were soon lost in 
the universal conflagration of the Revolutionary war. 

4. There was now no doubt as to the meaning of the British 



1774] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 63 

ministry : the American colonies must be subdued. March 
31, 1774, the famous Boston Port Bill was passed. This act 
of Parhament was designed to close the ports of Boston, 
thus excluding all commerce. Massachusetts was soon after 
deprived of her charter, and a law was made by Parliament 
ordering criminals in America to be brought to England for 
trial. All this produced discontent, and made the colonies ripe 
for revolution. Georgia was the last settled colony, and the 
last to take up arms; but when the war came no State showed 
more endurance and greater valor. 

5. July 20, 1774, a notice was printed in the Georgia Gazette 
requesting all persons in favor of liberty to meet in Ton- 
dee's Tavern, in Savannah, on the 27th of that month, to 
consider what was best to be done. This notice was signed 
by Noble Wimberly Jones, Archibald Bullock, John Houston, 
and George Walton. At the appointed time but few of the 
parishes were represented, and the meeting adjourned until 
August loth. It w^as hoped that all the parishes would send 
delegates at that time and the existing abuses be remon- 
strated against. 

6. Governor Wright issued a proclamation forbidding this 
meeting. He declared it "unconstitutional, illegal, and 
punishable by law." In the meantime John Glen, the 
chairman, had sent notices to the different parishes, and, 
August 10, 1774, a band of patriots gathered at Savannah, 
representing the Revolutionary sentiment of the colony, and 
passed patriotic resolutions. 

7. These resolutions declared the Americans deserved the 
privileges of subjects resident in Great Britain ; that they had 
the right to petition the throne when they were aggrieved; 
that the Boston Port Bill was criminally tyrannous; that the 
withdrawal of the charter from Massachusetts was subver- 
sive of American rights; that Parliament had no right to 
tax the American colonies; that it is unjust to transport 
accused persons to England for trial, and that Georgia con- 



64 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1775. 

curs with its sister colonies in every measure to obtain re- 
dress of grievances. A committee was appointed to receive 
subscriptions for the relief of the Boston sufferers, and such 
zeal was diplayed that nearly six hundred barrels of rice 
were contributed in a few hours and shipped to that port. 

8. Georgia had received no material injury from Great 
Britain, and the action of the late convention in Savannah 
showed that Georgia merged its interest into that of the 
Northern colonies, though British restriction had not become 
burdensome within her own borders. 

9. Soon afterward Governor Wright called a meeting of 
the adherents to the crown. About one hundred came from 
Savannah and vicinity, and "signed a dissent" against the 
above meeting. This dissent was given to men who went 
over the province and compelled others to sign it. Even 
fictitious names were added, and the names of persons who 
had been dead for several years. This was done to magnify 
the cause of the King, and overawe that of Liberty. 

10. As a counter-movement a number of people in and 
near Savannah formed themselves into a band called Lib- 
erty Boys. The British adherents were called Tories, while 
the Liberty Boys and their adherents were called rebels or 
Whigs. "Tory" soon became a term of bitter reproach. 
Thus affairs were assuming such a threatening aspect that the 
governor became alarmed. 

11. January 18, 1775, a Provincial Congress met in Savan- 
nah — John Glen, chairman. This body was composed of dele- 
gates from various parishes of Georgia, and met to consider 
the proper action of Georgia in the American troubles with 
the British government. Georgia's sympathy had been en- 
listed for the suffering of the Northern colonies, and the 
people of Georgia wanted their fortunes cast in with the 
rest of America. 

12. The general assembly met the same day. Governor 



1775-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 65 

Wright made a labored and earnest speech, advising the as- 
sembly to be loyal to the crown, but his address had no effect 
on the lower house. This representative branch of the as- 
sembly took into consideration the various letters from the 
different provinces in regard to American grievances, and 
passed resolutions corresponding in sentiment. They enter- 
tained several resolutions from the Provincial Congress, then 
in session, and resolved to send delegates to the Continental 
Congress to be held in Philadelphia, May lo, 1775. These 
proceedings provoked the wrath of the governor, and he 
adjourned the assembly until the 9th of May. Thus he 
defeated their intention to send delegates to the Continental 
Congress by giving them no time for election. 

13. The Provincial Congress also failed of efficient action. 
Only four of the twelve parishes were represented, and these 
were divided in sentiment as to the form of association. 
The Provincial Congress adjourned January 23d, having 
elected Noble Wimberly Jones, Archibald Bullock, and John 
Houston to represent Georgia in the General Congress to 
meet at Philadelphia, May 10, 1775. 

14. St. John's parish did not agree with the Provincial 
Congress in the form of association adopted, and, having 
withdrawn, they held a separate meeting in March, and 
elected Lyman Hall to represent their parish in the General 
Congress. This was a bold movement, and showed the spirit 
of these people. When the time arrived, Lyman Hall went 
to the Congress and presented his credentials. A seat was 
given him under certain restrictions, and, as the delegates 
elected by the Provincial Congress at Savannah did not 
attend, he was the first representative of Georgia in a Gen- 
eral Congress. 

15. The delegates elected by the Provincial Congress of 
Georgia decided not to attend the General Congress of all 
the States, and addressed a letter to the President of the 
Continental Congress stating their reasons. They set forth 



66 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1775. 

the dissensions in the province, and expressed their shame 
that while many deserved exception from all censure, the 
province in general had acted an unworthy part. They 
chose not to represent the province while so divided, but 
said, ''There are men in Georgia, who, when occasion shall 
require, will be ready to evince a steady, religious, and 
manly attachment to the liberties of America. 

16. When May 9, 1775, arrived, no members of the gen- 
eral assembly were present. Governor Wright waited until 
the 15th, and prorogued the session until November 7th. 
But that meeting was never held, for royal authority in 
Georgia had come to an end — at least for awhile. 

17. General Gage landed in Boston, May, 1774, with a 
fleet and army. Several skirmishes were fought, presaging 

the general rebellion. In 
April, 1775, three thou- 
sand British troops had 
collected in Boston. The 
battle of Lexington oc- 
curred soon after, in 
w^hich the British were 
severely defeated by the 
^j^" American forces. 




18, When the news 
reached Savannah great 
excitement and enthusi- 
asm prevailed. On the 
night of May 11, 1775, 
a party of six men, led 
by Joseph Habersham, 
broke open the door of 
jose^r^ersham."^ the powder magazine 

and took out all the am- 
munition. A part was sent to South Carolina, and the rest 
concealed in the garrets and cellars of their houses, and 



1 775-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 67 

finally reached Boston and was used in the battle of Bunker 
Hill. Governor Wright issued a proclamation offering a re- 
ward for the arrest of the perpetrators, but they were never 
taken. 

19. The King's birthday was to be celebrated June 2, 
^775- C)n the night of the ist a party collected together, 
spiked the battery guns, and threw them off the bluff into 
the river. Next day the royalists hoisted them up again with 
difficulty, drilled new holes, and went through the ceremony, 
hooted and jeered by the colonists. 

20. A liberty pole was afterwards erected, and a flag 
placed on the top. About five hundred people paraded 
through the town with great noise and defiance. The council 
declared that "no legal steps should be taken, as they would 
only exasperate the people. 

21. June 2 2d a meeting was held in Savannah and a 
council of safety elected by the Liberty people. William 
Ewen was elected president, and John Cuthbert secretary. 
The council had fourteen members. 

22. Justly alarmed by these bold measures, Governor 
Wright wrote a letter to General Gage, stating that the ports 
of Georgia were all blocked up, and praying him to send 
relief to the colony. Unfortunately for the royalists, this 
letter was intercepted in South Carolina, the contents taken 
out, and another letter placed in the envelope, stating that 
Georgia was quiet and needed no help. Accordingly the 
royal government in Georgia received no assistance from the 
British army, and the reason was not ascertained by Gov- 
ernor Wright until years after, when he met General Gage in 
London, and, inquiring the cause, learned the deception. 

23. The council of safety began the discharge of its 
duties, but was thoroughly opposed by the royalists. A 
young royalist, named Hopkins, expressed ridicule of their 
meeting in a toast at a public meeting. For this he was 



68 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1775. 

taken out to the public square, tarred and feathered and 
paraded through the town, amid the jeers of the populace, up 
to the liberty pole. Here he was threatened with hanging 
unless he drank a toast to the success of American arms, 
which he hastened to do, and was turned loose. Colonel 
Brown, at Augusta, was subjected to similar punishment for 
a like offense. 

24:, On May 19, 1775, the Second Continental Congress met 
at Philadelphia. Peyton Randolph was president. Georgia 
was represented at first by Lyman Hall alone, though other 
delegates came later in the session. This Congress commis- 
sioned George Washington Commander-in-Chief of all Ameri- 
can forces. 

25. It is important to note that at this time the popula- 
tion of Georgia was seventeen thousand whites and fifteen 
thousand colored. The militia force numbered less than 
three thousand. The Indians in the interior were forty 
thousand in number, of which there were ten thousand war- 
riors threatening the colony. 




[1 775-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 69 



CHAPTER XIV. 

1775— 1777. 

Provincial Congress.— Capture of Ship-load of Provender,— Arrest of Gov- 
ernor Wright.— First Battle in Georgia.— Declaration of Independence.— 
Constitution of 1777.— Counties Named.— Seal Adopted. 

"'-"-^ ^^ 

HE Provincial Congress met at Savannah, July 4, 
1775, with delegates from every parish, district, or 



^ "^ town. They elected Archibald Bullock president, 
^ffi^ and George Walton secretary, and began the session 
(h with a solemn religious service; the sermon being 
I preached before them by Rev. Dr. Zubly. Noble Wim- 
berly Jones and Dr. Lyman Hall were among the delegates 
elected to the Continental Congress to assemble in Phila- 
delphia. 

2. During the session of the Provincial Congress, Captain 
Maitland's ship arriving at Tybee with fourteen thousand 
pounds of powder, it was resolved to make a capture of this 
prize. Commodore Bowen and Colonel Habersham, leading 
a number of volunteers, made a successful attack. This was 
the first naval capture of the Revolution. Nine thousand 
pounds of the powder were retained by Georgia and five 
thousand sent to Washington, with which he drove the British 
from Boston. 

3. Royal authority in Georgia was now at an end. The 
militia met in their companies, and, expelling all royalists, 
elected their own officers. Governor Wright wrote home for 
a recall, declaring that a King's governor had no business in 
Georgia, since all executive powers were now assumed by the 
new council of safety. This council met every Monday at 
Tondee's long room, in Savannah. November 4, 1775, they 



70 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1776. 

ordered a battalion to be raised in Georgia for its defense at 
the expense of the Continental Treasury. Lachan Mcintosh 
was appointed colonel; Samuel Elbert, Heutenant-colonel; 
and Joseph Habersham, major. 

4. On the 1 2th of January, 1776, several British men-of- 
war with transports appeared off Tybee and made warlike 
demonstrations. The council of safety ordered the arrest of 
Governor Wright and his assistants. Major Habersham un- 
dertook to execute this order alone and unsupported. For 
this purpose he went to the house of the governor, and, 
boldly entering, laid his hand upon the governor's shoulder, 
saying, ''You are my prisoner ! " The daring act caused the 
governor to beUeve that his captor was well supported; he 
therefore surrendered, and allowed a guard to be placed at 
his house. However, he escaped soon afterward, and was 
taken on board the British ship Scarbo?vugh. From this place 
of safety he wrote a letter to the colonists assuring them of 
the King's forgiveness if they would return again to loyalty, 
and closed with the statement that the King had power to 
compel their obedience. But these overtures were rejected. 
The people preferred liberty. During this time James Haber- 
sham, the prominent Georgia patriot, died. His loss was 
deeply deplored, although the state of affairs admitted of no 
great public display of grief. 

5. The Provincial Congress again met, January, 1776, and 
elected Archibald Bullock, John Houston, George Walton, 
Lyman Hall, and Button Gwinnett to represent Georgia in 
the Continental Congress. At the same time the council of 
safety contracted for four hundred stand of arms, twenty 
thousand pounds of powder, sixty thousand poimds of ball and 
bullets, and ordered the stores at Frederica to be secured. 
The British vessels still remained in Savannah River until 
March, when their supplies running short they determined to 
seize eleven rice vessels which were waiting an opportunity to 
slip out to sea. In order to make the capture two of the ves- 



1776.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 71 

sels sailed up Back River, and anchored near Savannah, while 
the other— the Hiticlmibroke — trying to pass through some 
channels around the city, got aground near the plantation of 
Jonathan Bryan. Being perceived, it was attacked by Major 
Habersham and a party of riflemen, who drove every man 
from the ship and captured it. Meantime between two hun- 
dred and three hundred British troops had taken possession 
of several merchant vessels lying near Hutchinson's Island. 
Captain Rice, from the Georgia troops, had been sent to these 
vessels to remove their cargo, but he was captured and de- 
tained. Next morning information of this movement was 
given, producing great excitement. Colonel Mcintosh with 
three hundred men at once marched to Yamacraw Bluff, op- 
posite the vessels, threw up breastworks, and sent two offi- 
cers, Roberts and Demere, to demand the release of Captain 
Rice. But these officers were also seized and detained. An 
indignant demand from Colonel Mcintosh, through a speaking- 
trumpet, for the return of his officers, was promptly answered 
by a volley of grape-shot. This was the beginning of a gen- 
eral action, and a brisk fire was kept up between the parties 
for four hours. 

6. The committee of safety had a meeting in the after- 
noon, and resolved to set the vessels in the harbor on fire. 
Accordingly Commodore Bowen, James Jackson, and John 
Morel went to the ship Inverness, set it on fire, and cut it 
loose. The burning vessel drifted against the brig Nelly, 
which also took fire and drifted into the British fleet, causing 
men and officers to jump overboard, many of whom were 
drowned and others taken prisoners. In a few hours many 
other British ships caught fire, and when night came on the 
red glare of the flames, with the roar of the cannon and the 
movements of the troops, made a wild and memorable scene. 
Next morning the remaining vessels dropped down to Tybee, 
and soon after Roberts, Demere, and Rice were exchanged. 
Soon after, Bullock with a party of patriots entered Tybee 
Island and drove off the Tories, burning the houses, and 



72 STUDEA T'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1776 

taking several prisoners. Thus the first aggression of the 
British against Georgia failed, and the province was encour- 
aged in its resistance of the royal arms. 




Seal of the United Colonies, 1776. 

7. On the 8th of August, 1776, news of the Declaration of 
Independence reached Georgia. It had been signed at Phil- 
adelphia, July 4th, by the delegates of the thirteen colonics in 
the Continental Congress. George Walton, Button Gwinnett, 
and Lyman Hall signed on behalf of Georgia. When the 
news came it was received with great demonstrations of joy. 
A liberty flag was run up to the top of the liberty pole, at the 
base of which the Declaration was publicly read. A great 
civil and military procession paraded the streets, the batter- 
ies and the ships fired salutes by turns, a pubHc banquet was 
given, and the royal government was ceremoniously buried 
with muffled drums and trailing arms. At night enthusiastic 
public speeches were made, and brilliant bonfires concluded 
the demonstration. 

8. The exigencies of the times now demanding a new form 
of government, Bullock, as president of the council, sent an 



1 777-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 73 

order to the several parishes to elect delegates to a conven- 
tion to be held in Savannah, October, 1776. The conven- 
tion adopted many prudent measures. Among other things 
they adopted, February 5, 1777, sixty-three governing arti- 
cles, which constituted the first constitution of Georgia framed 
by its own citizens. These articles affirmed the separation 
from Great Britain, the principles of the Declaration of Inde- 
pendence, and the Constitution of the new government of 
the United States. They also distinctly separated the de- 
partments of State government into the executive, the legis- 
lative, and the judiciary. The governor was made com- 
mander-in-chief of the army and navy of the State. A 
council was also created to assist the governor, which should 
be com. posed of two members from each county, chosen by 
the legislature from the representatives of the county. The 
legislature should be chosen annually by ballot of the people 
in their respective counties. In each of the eight counties a 
superior court was to be held semi-annually by three or more 
county judges and the chief-justice of the State. It was pro- 
vided that the legislature should elect delegates to Congress 
every year, and that these members of Congress should have 
the right to debate and vote in the legislature of the State. 
The principles of habeas corpus, freedom of the press, and 
right of trial by jury were also formally incorporated in this 
new constitution. The framing of the greater part of this 
instrument is attributed to Button Gwinnett, who possessed 
considerable literary as well as political attainments. 

9. The General Congress also adopted article sof confeder- 
ation or perpetual union between the States, and established 
a separate and distinct government from Great Britain. 

10. The new constitution of Georgia, 1777, abolished the 
parishes, and divided the State into eight counties, changing 
both the boundaries and names of the former parishes. The 
counties were named as follows : Chatham, Glynn, Effingham, 
Richmond, Burke, Camden, Liberty, and Wilkes. Six were 

7 



74 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



{^in- 



named in honor of eminent Englishmen who had shown 
special friendliness to the colonists. Liberty was so called to 
commemorate the prominent patriotism of the people of that 
county. Wilkes was formed of lands recently ceded by the 
Indians, taking its name from one who was at the time a 
noted friend of America. 

11. The convention adopted a new great seal of state at 
this session. On one side of the seal is a picturesque land- 
scape, farm houses, green meadows, corn, and cattle, a ship 
sailing in a bay, and the motto, ^'■Deus nobis haec otia facit ;^'' 
on the other side is a scroll with the motto, "/^;v bono publico ;^'' 
and on the scroll near the edge of the seal the words, "The 
Constitution of the State of Georgia." Soon after the conven- 
tion adjourned the death of Archibald Bullock occurred, Feb- 
ruary, 1777. He was president of the council at the time 
of his death, and was engaged as the executive, under the 
new constitution, to put its provisions into operation. 



UONE DOLLAR. ~^uJb^y7Ta 



bj*^.10NE DOLLAR. 

\y}i-TV[S BmtnUiIri th. 

S^'ONE Spanish MICX 
iOJ ED DOLLAR, or ti, 
^.i/:^ WaUie ihinof i» Cold or 
ffi^ Silver, acariing 
}—^\ ft/uiion t>/ CONG PESSi 

.^0 ><J^4^ P H I LADEI. 

^-^fflflNowmber J5. 177; 





^^ 



Continental Mone^ 



1777.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 75 



CHAPTER XV. 

1777-1778. 

Gwinnett, President of Council.-Expedition against Florida.-Duel with 
Mcintosh.— John Treutlen Elected Governor.— John Houston Elected 
Governor.— Expedition against Florida.— Capture of Savannah. 

fUTTON GWINNETT was elected, February 22, 1777, 
president of the executive council, in place of the 
lamented Bullock. He began his administration with 
an ill-planned expedition against Florida, which he purposed to 
lead in person without consulting General Mcintosh, who 
was brigadier-general commanding the Georgia forces. Hav- 
ing failed, Gwinnett proposed another campaign, under the 
command of Colonels Elbert and Baker, in which he again 
disregarded the military organizations commanded by Mcin- 
tosh. Colonel Baker by great efforts raised a small com- 
mand of one hundred and nineteen men, and after many 
delays, caused by high rivers and several fights with Indians, 
reached the place of rendezvous on the 12th of May, at tke 
appointed time. But meanwhile Elbert, having embarked 
his command to be transported to the place of meeting, was 
so beaten about by the winds that he did not arrive until six 
days after the appointed time. Baker, being alone, was 
fiercely attacked, his command demoralized, and finally 
broken up into small parties— some regaining Georgia, and 
others finding Elbert. An attack on St. Augustine by 
Colonel Elbert was now faintly made. Discouraged by 
delays and the loss of Baker's command, his provisions fail- 
ing, and the enemy being strong, he concluded to give up 
this second ill-fated scheme of Governor Gwinnett, and re- 
treated to Frederica. 



76 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1778 

^l. The intentional slights which Gwinnett put upon Gen- 
eral Mcintosh greatly and justly affronted him. Gwinnett 
took no pains to conceal his enmity to the Mcintosh family, 
and thus the hatred of these two officers of the government 
was heightened into a deadly feud. Finally when, in May, 
1777, Gwinnett was defeated at the election for governor. 
Mcintosh expressed his gratification in such strong words as 
to i)rovoke an immediate challenge to a duel at sunrise. The 
challenge was accepted, the parties met, stood twelve paces 
apart, and at the first fire both fell wounded. Mcintosh re- 
covered, but in a few days Gwinnett died. After the duel 
Mcintosh was arrested and tried, but acquitted. He and his 
son, however, were so bitterly pursued by Gwinnett's friends 
that George Walton advised him to seek a transfer to the 
Northern department of the army for awhile. This he finally 
reluctantly did, and General Washington gave him important 
service worthy his military talents. 

So In May, 1777, the legislature elected John Adams 
Treutlen governor, over Gwinnett, the opposite candidate, 
by a large majority. The executive council authorized by 
the new constitution was also formed and the old council of 
safety w^as discontinued. Additional forces were called for, 
to be called minute-men, and, to encourage enlistment, large 
bounties were offered. Provisions becoming scarce, the 
governor prohibited the exportation of any subsistence what- 
ever, and also prohibited, under heavy fines, any depreciation 
of the State's paper money. Lands were freely offered to 
settlers to encourage immigration, and large bounties to any 
from otlier countries who would enlist in the army. As many 
dragoons as could be spared were kept under Colonel Mar- 
bury to defend the frontier settlements against the raids of the 
enemy. The administration of this one year was marked by 
considerable vigor. 

4. January, 1778, the legislature again assembled, and 
proceeding to elect a governor, chose John Houston to sue- 



1 778-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 77 

ceed Treutlen. Notwithstanding the failures of all former 
invasions of Florida, it was deemed advisable to attempt an- 
other. Major-General Robert Howe had been recently ap- 
pointed commander of the army in the Southern States, and in 
January, 1778, had removed his head-quarters from Charleston 
to Savannah. In cooperation with Governor Houston, Gen- 
eral Howe began new military operations against the British 
in Florida. On the 7th of June, 1778, he marched the 
Georgia brigade to the St. Mary's River, and intended to await 
the arrival of other troops which had been sent by sea. But 
finding the enemy camped fourteen miles distant, he determined 
to attack them at once. Colonel Elijah Clarke was therefore 
advanced with one hundred men, but the difficulties of the 
route and the strength of the enemy's position baffled him. 

5. Howe now remained waiting two months for Governor 
Houston and Colonel Williamson to arrive with troops. At 
last they came, but there was no harmony in the command. 
Every leading officer aspired to a chief command, and the 
army was divided into four parts. The dissension was de- 
feating the enterprise, and General Howe, greatly chagrined, 
called a general council of officers. No union could be 
effected, and therefore Howe was compelled to abandon the 
campaign, mortified and disappointed. His army retreated to 
Sunbury, dispirited and disabled. The only service done in 
the expedition was the checking an invasion of Georgia from 
Florida, then threatened by the British. 

6. Meantime Washington, who was in command of the 
Americans, pressed by superior numbers, was compelled to 
evacuate New York, and move even into New Jersey. He 
pushed his army down to Trenton, closely pursued by Corn- 
wallis. Arriving near Trenton, he crossed the Delaware River 
on blocks of floating ice, and, on Christmas night, surprised 
and captured one thousand Hessian soldiers. He lost only 
nine men himself, two of whom were frozen. This was a 
brilliant victory. He occupied Trenton January 2, 1777. 



78 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1778. 



Cornwallis, coming in pursuit, stopped at Princeton, where 
Washington attacked him by surprise. The British were 
defeated, but the Americans sustained a heavy loss. 

7. During the same month the British General Howe left 
New York and sailed towards Philadelphia. Washington 
met him, and the battle of Brandywine was fought, in which 
the Americans were forced back by superior numbers. It 

was during the winter of 
1777 that Washington's 
army suffered great hard- 
ships at Valley Forge. In 
October the British Gen- 
eral Burgoyne, who had 
been campaigning on the 
Canada frontier, was 
pressed on all sides by 
Gates, and forced to sur- 
render his army. This 
victory encouraged the 
drooping spirits of the 
colonists, and induced 
George Washington. France to make a treaty 

of alliance and to send support to the colonies. 

8. Sir Henry Clinton, in command of the British forces, 
now turned his attention toward the South, to take Savannah, 
and operate from thence against South Carolina. He planned 
two expeditions — one from the North, under Lieutenant- 
Colonel Campbell, and the other from Florida, under Colonel 
Prevost. The Florida forces were divided into two bodies — • 
one to proceed by sea, and the other by land, under Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Prevost, son of Colonel Prevost. 

9. The march, 1778, by land was eminently successful. 
In several engagements the Americans were driven back, and 
in one the gallant General Scriven was killed. The British 
pursued their march to Sunbury, where they expected to be 




1778-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 79 

joined by Colonel Frazer. But Frazer not arriving at once, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Prevost grew uneasy and returned to 
Florida, leaving a wasted country in his line of march. 
Frazer arriving some days later, peremptorily demanded the 
surrender of the fort. Colonel John Mcintosh was in com- 
mand, and he at once returned the defiant and laconic an- 
swer, "Come and take it," which Frazer prudently declined 
to attempt, and, putting to sea, also returned to Florida. 

10. The expedition ordered by General Clinton left New 
York November, 1778, with a fleet of ten vessels and three 
thousand five hundred men. In December they reached 
Savannah and anchored. General Howe hastened to collect 
his troops and fortify his position to meet the expected attack. 
At the same time Colonel Prevost began a devastating march 
from Florida. Georgia affairs grew critical. The British 
forces landed about two miles south of Savannah, and formed 
near Gerridoe's plantation. Here they waited to ascertain 
Howe's position and strength. The Americans had chosen 
good ground, expecting the attack to be made along the road 
to Brewston Hill. General Howe also burnt the bridge over 
the intervening stream, cut a ditch from the marsh, which 
soon filled with water, and thus, with the stream, ditch, and 
marsh in his front, he confidently awaited attack, although his 
forces were inferior in numbers. 

11. The British commander, however, discerned that the 
Americans were too advantageously posted for him to hazard 
an attack on their front, and therefore he sought means to 
march upon the rear. Ordering several companies to display 
in front of Howe's command, and to make a feint of assailing 
it, he led the larger body of his troops around the swamp 
under cover. Falling in with an old negro, named Quash 
Dolly, he was shown a path that led through the swamp 
directly to the rear of Howe's army. This path was left un- 
guarded, and the British found an easy route. Thus, while 
the Americans were engaged in front, the enemy suddenly 



80 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1778. 

burst on their flank and rear. The surprise threw them into 
the utmost confusion. Many cast down their arms at once 
and fled to Savannah, while others jumped into tlie water and 
were drowned or taken prisoners. The victorious British 
pressed the flying Americans into the streets of Savannah, 
where many of them were cruelly bayoneted. 

12. The defeat of Howe was complete. The British ships 
sailed up the river, capturing all the shipping and naval 
stores, and cut off all direct communications with South Caro- 
lina. Savannah fell wholly into the hands of the enemy, and 
the riotous soldiers acted more like savages than civilized men. 
They inflicted many cruelties, committed robberies, and nearly 
despoiled the beautiful city. General Howe fled into South 
Carolina, when he saw the complete defeat of his forces, and 
became the subject of severe censure. He was particularly 
blamed for leaving the path to his rear unguarded, since 
Walton and others had informed him of its existence. His 
flight was also regarded as hasty, and a court-martial was 
formed to try him. But, after due trial, he was acquitted. 
General Lincoln was ordered to take command of Howe's 
unfortunate department, and he, reaching Georgia in January 
1779, found himself in charge of an almost forlorn hope. 

13. General Prevost, while on his march of destruction 
from Florida, reached Sunbury, when he heard of the fall of 
Savannah. Inspired by the news, he at once invested the 
town and demanded its surrender. After three days. Major 
Lane, the commanding officer of the garrison, with two hun- 
dred and twelve officers and men, and with all the stores in 
the fort, were formally surrendered. The loss of his com- 
mand by this defeat cost Lane his commission, because he 
had disobeyed the orders of Howe to vacate the fort and 
join him at Sister's Ferry. 



1779-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 81 



CHAPTER XVI. 

1779. 

Return of Governor W^right. — Defeat of Brown. — Defeat of Boyd at Kettle 
Creek.— Defeat of General Ash at Briar Creek.— John Wereat and George 
Walton. — Arrival of Count D'Estaing.— Combined Attack upon Savan- 
nah.— Death of Pulaski and Jasper. 

bvERNOR WRIGHT, who had gone to England, 
J)A returned to Georgia, July 13, 1779, and resumed 
^^^ the reins of government. He hastened to publish in 
all the papers assurances of his friendliness to Georgia, and 
that the British fleet would give all peaceable people pro- 
tection and support. He invited in most alluring terms the 
people to espouse the British cause and return to loyalty 
and peace. Many were induced by these offers to renounce 
the "rebel cause," as the war for Independence was called. 
Howe's defeat discouraged the American troops and dis- 
heartened the State. General Prevost also arriving at Sa- 
vannah, and joining his troops with those already there, 
had now a command of about four thousand men. These 
he disposed of by leaving a garrison at Savannah, establish- 
ing a strong post at Ebenezer, twenty-four miles above the 
city, sending Colonel Campbell with a strong force of eight 
hundred regulars to Augusta, while with the main body he 
sought to check the movements of General Lincoln, who 
had reached Purysburg, a few miles above Savannah, in 
Carolina, with troops for the relief of Georgia. 

2. When General Lincoln arrived, January, 1779, to take 
charge of Georgia affairs, he found his department in a 
wretched state. The South and North Carolina troops which 
he brought with him numbered scarcely more than twelve 
hundred restless, undisciplined men. The fragments of 



82 STUDENT'S HISTORV OF GEORGIA. [1779. 

Howe's command joined him, under command of Colonel 
Hughes, and were in a demoralized state. British emis- 
saries were at work creating disaffection in Georgia, and 
the British army was rapidly occupying all the chief places 
of the State. 

3. Soon, however, some events transpired that revived the 
hopes of the patriots. A party of royalists were ravaging 
Burke County, under the command of the notorious Colonel 
Brown, when they were attacked one night in camp by a 
hastily collected body of Americans and totally routed. The 
atrocious violence of Campbell's troops in Augusta inspired 
terror, but also aroused the ire of the people. John Dooly, a 
gallant patriot, circulated a stirring appeal to the people to 
rally against the British, who were invading the country under 
Colonel Hamilton. Colonel Pickens also collected two hun- 
dred and fifty men, and hastened to join Dooly's band in 
Carolina. The little army thus formed crossed the Savannah 
River into Georgia, attacked Hamilton at Carr's Fort, drove 
him inside his works, and laid siege. Having cut off all his 
supplies, they expected an early surrender, when, hearing of 
the approach of the notorious outlaw Boyd with his maraud- 
ers, they reluctantly retreated into South Carolina. 

4. Captain Boyd marched his command into Georgia and 
halted, February 14, 1779, at Ketde Creek, in Wilkes 
County, to which place he was closely and stealthily fol- 
lowed by Pickens and Dooly. Boyd, unconscious of the 
proximity of his pursuers, had scattered his command in 
various directions to secure and cook their provisions, and 
the Americans, seizing their opportunity, fell suddenly upon 
them. Boyd raUied a few men behind a fence and defended 
himself awhile, but Pickens dislodged him, routed his men, 
and Boyd himself was killed. Once again the defeated 
royalists were rallied by Major Spurgeon and fought des- 
perately, but again they were flanked and charged by Col- 
onel Clarke with two hundred and fifty Georgians, and 



1779.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 83 



routed with great loss. This signal victory dispersed Boyd's 
command, and it was never formed again. The success of 
the attack greatly encouraged the American troops and re- 
vived the warlike spirit of the people. ■ 

5. Prevost now thought it advisable to withdraw his forces 
from Augusta and to retreat toward Savannah. The Ameri- 
cans, receiving reinforcements, harassed the retreating Brit- 
ish, and began the recovery of all the lost positions. Gen- 
eral Lincoln had recruited his army to nine thousand men, 
and was wisely managing the campaign. One unhappy 
disaster, however, occurred at this time in the surprise of 
General Ash, who was at Brier Creek, in Georgia, with 
twenty-three hundred men. General Ash imprudently camped 
his command with the Savannah River on one side, and im- 
passable swamps on the other, so that in case of attack and 
defeat, he had no open way of escape. Here also he relaxed 
his vigilance, notwithstanding the nearness of the enemy. 

6. Colonel Campbell, the British commander, learning the 
situation of his unguarded foe, proceeded to attack him, and 
so well managed his assault as to win a complete victory. Ash 
was wholly unready, and after a vain, brief, and disorderly 
resistance, he was overwhelmingly defeated. He fled him- 
self with such of his command as could escape through the 
swamps, leaving three hundred and forty dead and prisoners, 
with nearly all his arms and camp equipments. The loss 
of the enemy was only sixteen men. This disaster was 
keenly felt by General Lincoln, whose plan of campaign was 
deranged by it. After this the British still held Savannah 
and its vicinity, but no fighting of consequence occurred m 
Georgia during the following spring and summer. 

7. The executive council and legislature, which had met 
at Savannah, were moved to Augusta after the former city 
had been taken by the British. During the period of its 
misfortunes just narrated the time to elect a governor, as re- 
quired by the constitution of 1777, passed, and the State w^as 



84 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1779. 

without governor and council. The late executive council hav- 
ing met at the house of Mathew Hobson, in Augusta, and 
resolved to act for the State, with John Houston continu- 
ing as governor until the legislature could assemble. When 
the time arrived for the legislature to meet, no quorum was 
in attendance, and in this extremity the few members who 
were present elected a council, and chose John Wereat the 
president, with full power to govern the State. This illegal 
action was adopted because the emergency seemed to demand 
it, but great discontent arose. 

8. George Walton and his friends opposed the administra- 
tion of Wereat as illegal, and called a new assembly, which 
met in Augusta, November, 1779. This assembly denounced 
Wereat and his party, and elected George Walton governor 
of the State. Thus in a season of military reverses and 
popular distress Georgia had two governors, neither of whom 
were constitutionally elected. 

9. The treaty made between France and the United States, 
1778, was hailed with joy by all the colonies, for it oc- 
curred opportunely, and through it they saw the hope of 
independence about to be realized. A French fleet, with 
Count D'Estaing in command, sailed in April, 1778, and 
the French forces which it brought at first chiefly aided in 
the campaigns of the Northern colonies. During this year 
of naval operations D'Estaing captured Grenada and St. 
Vincent, in the West Indies, and while there he received 
an earnest petition from Georgia and South Carolina to aid 
them in the recovery of Savannah. 

10. In compliance with this request he sailed, and ar- 
rived September 3, 1779, with twenty line of battle-ships, 
two gun-ships and eleven frigates. First he captured sev- 
eral vessels near Tybee Island, and then, September 12th, 
sailed up Vernon River to Beaulieu, the old seat of Presi- 
dent William Stephens, where he landed his troops and 
stores. Completing his landing by the 15th, he marched 



1 779-] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 85 

the next day toward Savannah and camped about three miles 
from the town, without waiting for General Lincoln, whose 
command had not yet arrived. 

11. General Prevost, in Savannah, knowing that the 
French fleet had arrived, sent orders at once for all out- 
posts to fall back into the city, for Tybee to be vacated after 
destroying the fort, and for all boats to retire up the river. 
He then began to fortify the city more thoroughly, working 
the troops, with the marines and a large body of negroes, 
night and day. Every resource was used to perfect his de- 
fense. 

12. Count D'Estaing at once sent a summons to Prevost 
to surrender the city to the arms of the King of France; 
who, desiring to gain time to complete his defense, replied 
by proposing a truce of twenty-four hours, and asking what 
terms the Count would propose. The truce was agreed to, 
and during the delay Maitland arrived from Beaufort with 
about eight hundred men to the support of Prevost, and the 
fortifications were also finished. The truce ending. General 
Lincoln joined D'Estaing, and together they planned an at- 
tack. They concluded to invest the city by regular siege, 
instead of attempting an assault, . on account of the strength 
of the fortifications which Prevost had erected during the 
truce. Many days passed in the siege, in which hostilities 
were active. Cannonading was almost incessantly kept up, 
with an occasional sally and short skirmishes. 

13. Count D'Estaing finally determined to carry the works 
by assault and capture the city, as his troops were growing 
restive and the storms were threatening his vessels. Ac- 
cordingly, October 9th, at night, the attack was ordered, 
and two thousand five hundred men were set in motion for 
the enemy's works. The attack was to have been made be- 
fore day dawned, but the troops were hindered by the dark- 
ness, and it was daylight when they displayed before the 
enemy. Colonel Huger made a feint on the enemy's left, 

8 



86 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1779. 

but the British were not deceived. Colonel Dillon, who 
was ordered to penetrate the swamp and to attack the rear 
on the Ebenezer redoubt, was discovered by the enemy and 
driven back with a galling fire. Count D'Estaing gallantly 
led his columns even to the cannon's mouth and his troops 
fell thickly about him, mowed down by the cannon from the 
redoubt. But at this important juncture, when the French 
troops were pressing even through the abatis near the breast- 
works, D'Estaing fell wounded and was borne from the 
field. 

14. Meanwhile the Americans pressed toward Spring Hill 
redoubt, tlie most formidable of all the defenses, and suf- 
fering great loss, reached the ditch, which they passed, re- 
gardless of the fire, and climbing the parapet, planted on 
its crest the South Carolina flag — a flag that had been pre- 
sented by Mrs. Elliott to Sergeant Jasper. When the gallant 
assailants gained the top of the breastworks they were swept 
by a murderous fire, which also cut down the staff of their 
flag. Seeing it fall, Jasper seized it and again planted the 
broken staff on the same spot, but at that instant he fell 
mortally wounded, and as he was borne off the field the 
gallant soldier said: "Tell Mrs. Elliott that I died support- 
ing our colors." All that had been gained by the daring 
of these brave troops was lost by the fearful fire which 
drove them back. 

15. In another part of the field Count Pulaski, mounted 
on a superb black charger, rode at the head of his cavalry, 
ready and eager to follow up any advantage which the in- 
fantry should gain. While thus engaged he saw the con- 
fusion of D'Estaing's men after the count was wounded, and 
hastily turning his command over to Captain Horry, he hur- 
ried in person to re-form the disordered line. Waving his 
sword and pointing to Spring Hill redoubt, he led the troops 
reinspired by his intrepid bravery, and with almost incredi- 
ble courage penetrated the redoubt. But at that victorious 



1779- 



REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 



87 



movement the peerless count was shot in the groin, and 
borne back to the rear. Afterward he was conveyed to a 
vessel, but there he died, and his body was dropped into the 
sea. When the troops had entered the redoubt the havoc 
was terrific. The British cannon, advantageously posted. 




Pulaski Monument. 

swept with terrible fire the positions gained by the Ameri- 
cans, and finally the inevitable retreat was ordered, in which 
the dead and dying were left on the hard fought battle- 
field. No bloodier battle was fought in the entire Revolu- 
tion. 

16. The next day a truce was agreed on, and the dead 
were buried. Count D'Estaing embarked his broken army 
and sailed away, while General Lincoln retreated to Ebe- 
nezer and thence to Charleston. No words of censure 



88 



STUDENT ' S HIS TOR V OF GEOR GIA. [i 7 79- 



were passed between the unfortunate allies in their bloody 
battle. Each praised the courage of the other, and mutu- 
ally they lamented the result and mourned their dead. All 
armed opposition to the British was now for the time being 
at an end in Georgia. 




780.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 89 




CHAPTER XVII. 

1780—1781. 

Removal of Government to Heard's Fort.— Brown in Augusta. — Clarke At- 
tacks Augusta.— Lieutenant-Colonel Lee Undertakes to Reduce Au- 
gusta.— Capture of Forts at Augusta.— Nancy Hart. 

FTER the capture of Savannah the seat of govern- 
,^ ment was removed to Augusta, but when in 1780 
Charleston also fell, Augusta was deemed too inse- 
cure, and the government retired to Heard's Fort, 
the present city of Washington, in Wilkes County. 
This was the place where the shattered State of Georgia held 
its official seat until Augusta was retaken. 

2. After the fall of Charleston, Clinton sent out three ex- 
peditions into the interior. One under CornwaUis toward 
Camden; one under Colonel Cruger toward Ninety-Six, and 
another under Colonel Brown against Augusta. This move- 
ment was designed to completely subjugate the Southern col- 
onies. Colonel Brown, assisted by Colonel Grierson, lost no 
time in taking possessson of Augusta. Brown himself was a 
notoriously cruel man, who had given such offense to the 
people of that city, that some years previous he had been 
tarred, feathered, and carted through the streets by an angry , 
mob. He was noted for his hatred to the cause of liberty" 
and its supporters, and he now had an opportunity to wreak 
his vengeance upon the people who had insulted him, and 
whom he so heartily hated. 

3. But the patriots of Georgia and South Carolina had not 
entirely disbanded. Colonel Elijah Clarke had collected one 
hundred and fifty men at Freeman's Fort, and though driven 



90 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1780. 

from that post, had succeeded in joining a party of CaroHn- 
ians under Colonel Williams. Some of the enemy's troops 
had collected on the Ennoree River, in South Carolina. 
Here Clarke and Williams attacked them, and defeating them 
with much slaughter, put an end to the depredations they had 
been committing. This decisive battle had the effect of again 
reviving the courage of the colonists, though the country was 
still overrun by British troops. 

4. Colonel Clarke immediately set about collecting troops 
to retake Augusta, because this city was the key to the north- 
ern part of the State, and its possession was of great impor- 
tance. About five hundred armed men were assembled and 
marched to Augusta, where they were divided so as to attack 
the town at three points. The division under Major Taylor 
attacked the Indian camp on Hawk's Gully, drawing Brown 
and Grierson to the support of their Indian allies. The town 
being thus left unguarded on two sides, the two other divis- 
ions of Clarke's army entered by the west and south, and, 
capturing the garrison, occupied the whole town. 

5. Brown and Grierson were now hotly pressed, and took 
refuge with their troops in a strong building called Seymour's 
White House, which they succeeded in defending. Clarke 
attempted to dislodge them, without success and then laid 
siege to the house. 

6. For four days the siege continued, when Brown and his 
party becoming destitute of food and water were on the point 
of starvation. Brown had been shot through both legs, and 
was on the point of surrender, when, September 20, 1780, 
Colonel Cruger arrived from Ninety Six with a large force for 
his relief. 

7. This body of regulars compelled Colonel Clarke to raise 
the siege and hastily retreat, leaving thirty wounded soldiers 
to be taken prisoners. The savage cruelty of Colonel Brown 
was now again displayed. He caused thirteen of these 
wounded prisoners to be hung just outside the door of his 



[78i.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. ■ 91 



sick-room, on a stair-case where he could see them swing off, 
and surrendered the remainder to the Indians. Colonel 
Cruger entered Augusta without opposition, and again the 
city was in the hands of the British. 

8. Clarke despaired of further defending Georgia, and took 
his troops over into Carolina, where they did valiant service 
under various officers in the battles of King's Mountain, 
Long Cane, and Cowpens. Major James Jackson especially 
distinguished himself at Cowpens, where with his command 
of Georgians he won the praise of his commanding officer. 

9. In the spring of 1781, General Nathaniel Greene super- 
seded General Gates as commander of the Southern army. 
As this skillful general marched his troops southward he 
took all the British outposts, and drove the enemy nearer and 
nearer to their strongholds in Savannah and Charleston. 

10. The elastic courage of the people now again arose, 
and another plan was laid to capture Augusta. May 19, 
1 781, Lieutenant-Colonel Henry Lee, the father of the fam- 
ous General Robert E. Lee, arrived near Augusta with a 
large body of troops from the Northern States, where Gen- 
eral Pickens, of South Carolina, joined him. Colonel Clarke 
hastened to collect as large a body of patriots as possible, 
and set out from Carolina to join Pickens and Lee at Au- 
gusta. 

11. Approaching the city from the south side, Clarke as- 
certained that a large supply of Indian presents and fire-arms 
were deposited in Fort Galphin, at Silver Bluff, on Beach 
Island, twelve miles below Augusta. Having informed 
Pickens and Lee, they undertook to reduce this stockade fort 
before Colonel Brown, in Augusta, learned of their intention. 
Accordingly a troop of horse was detached for that purpose, 
and put under command of Major Rudolph. 

12. The attack was made, and followed up with such spirit 
that the fort soon surrendered, with one hundred and twenty- 



92 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1781. 

six prisoners, arms, ammunition, blankets, and salt enough to 
supply the whole army. This fort had been named for 
George Galphin, an Indian trader, whose home had been 
upon the bluff. 

13. At that time Augusta was defended by Forts Grierson 
and Cornwallis, the former being on the site where the 
upper market now stands, and the latter on the site of St. 
Paul's Church, with a large open plain between them. In 
these two forts Brown and Grierson had placed themselves 
and awaited attack. 

14r. General Pickens moved a body of troops between the 
two forts, and placed his field batteries so as to play upon 
both. He opened fire May 24, 1781. It was then decided 
to divide the army into two parts and attack Fort Grierson 
from two directions. Pickens and Clarke were to attack 
upon the north and west, while Majors Eaton and Jackson at- 
tacked from the south. The field batteries and the judicious 
arrangement of several small bodies of troops prevented 
Brown from giving Grierson any assistance, and he was des- 
tined to see a part of his command cut off and captured, 
while he was helpless to assist them. 

15. Just before the attack Grierson abandoned the fort 
and attempted a hasty retreat around the batteries to Fort 
Cornwallis; but Clarke attacked him so vigorously that only 
a few escaped back to their fort, Grierson among the number. 

16. The Americans quickly invested this fort and began 
its reduction. The ground was so level and open that the 
fort had to be approached by trenches. But as the time re- 
quired to reach the fort in that manner would be great, 
Colonel Lee suggested the erection of a wooden tower, filHng 
it with bricks and dirt to make it secure, mount cannon on 
the top, and thus command the inside of the fort. The tower 
was built behind an old house; but Brown discovering the 
work, made several bloody sallies with the intention of de- 
stroying it. 



1 78 1.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 93 

17. When this tower was completed and the cannon placed 
in position, effective work was done by dismounting the 
enemy's cannon and driving them to shelter. 

18. After several desperate efforts to save his command, 
Brown signed articles of surrender, June 5, 1781, delivering 
the forts to Major Rudolph, and all the arms and ammunition. 
The troops marched out under an escort, and according to 
agreement were carried to Savannah. Colonels Brown and 
Grierson were provided with special escorts to protect them 
from the infuriated people whom they had oppressed. But 
in spite of all caution. Colonel Grierson was shot dead by 
a man who rode up on horseback and fired through the win- 
dow of the room where he was sitting. 

19. Augusta was again in the hands of the Americans, and 
the people greatly rejoiced. Major James Jackson was left in 
command, and Pickens and Lee led their forces to Ninety 
Six to join General Greene. 

.20. To illustrate the heroism among certain classes of 
women at the time, the following anecdote is told of Nancy 
Hart, who lived in Elbert County. She w^as tall, strong, 
fiery-tempered, cross-eyed, and cordially hated the Tories. A 
party of these gave her a call one day and ordered a break- 
fast. Nancy soon had the smoking viands spread before 
them, and with apparent hospitality urged them to eat. 
They stacked their arms in one corner of her cabin, and sat 
down to the meal with jesting and mirth. Quick as thought 
the dauntless woman sprang to the guns, jerked one up, 
cocked it, and wnth an oath swore she would shoot the first 
Tory that dared move. All were terror-stricken, for each one 
thought from her cross-eyes that he was the one she w^as 
looking at. ''Go," said she to one of her sons, ''and tell 
the Whigs that I have taken six base Tories." One of the 
men made a motion to advance upon her, and, true to her 
threat, she fired, and he fell dead upon the floor. Seizing 
another musket, she brought it to bear upon the others, in 



94 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1781. 



readiness to fire. By this time her husband and several 
Whigs had arrived, and at Nancy's suggestion, who swore 
shooting was too good for them, the Tories were taken out 
and hung. The position of her cabin and the scene of the 
execution is pointed out to-day. 




[781.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 95 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

1781—1782. 

Brownson Elected Governor. — Surrender of Cornwallis. — John Martin 
Elected Governor.— General Wayne Appointed to Command of Georgia 
Forces.— Arrival of Virginians.— Defeat of Party of Indians.— Colonel 
Brown. — Surrender of Savannah. 

^^^HE General Assembly met in Augusta, August 16, 
<^Jfo 1 781, and Dr. Nathan Brownson was elected Gov- 
^^^ ernor, and Edward Telfair, William Few, Noble Jones, 
and Samuel Stirk were sent to Congress. 

2. The steady approach of the American army had driven 
the enemy within narrow limits, and had raised the courage 
of the people. Numbers flocked to the American standard, 
and hope again took the place of despair. Ebenezer and 
Ogeechee were the only outposts the British held in Georgia, 
and these they were ready to call in. The long cherished 
idea of liberty seemed near becoming a reality, and the faint 
hearts of Georgia again took courage. 

3. Major James Jackson made an attempt upon the Ogee- 
chee post, but was forced to retreat, with sixteen killed and 
wounded. Being reinforced by Colonel Twiggs, he moved 
toward Ebenezer, cut off the enemy's supplies, and so har- 
assed them that they were compelled to abandon the post 
and retire to Savannah. 

4. Cornwallis, in command of the British forces at York- 
town, was surrounded by Washington, and forced to sur- 
render an army of seven thousand men, October 19, 1781. 
Soon after, Clinton arrived from New York to relieve Corn- 
wallis, but he had come too late. The British forces were 



96 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1782. 

then confined to a few places North and South, and the war 
was virtually at an end. 

5. The General Assembly of Georgia met in Augusta, Jan- 
uary, 1782, and elected John Martin Governor. But Httle 
business was transacted at this or any subsequent meeting 
this year. 

6. January 10, 1782, General Wayne was sent by General 
Greene, with a regiment of dragoons, into Georgia, to assume 
command of all the forces there. Wayne reached Sister's 
Ferry January 12th, and crossed into Georgia. His appear- 
ance dismayed the enemy in Savannah, who drew in all their 
outposts and retired within the city. They numbered only 
one thousand men, badly equipped and provisioned. General 
Alured Clarke was in command, and did what he could for 
the relief of his depressed garrison. 

7. This was now a period of general distress. One hun- 
dred and fifty Virginia troops came to Georgia, but were 
in great need of food and clothing. Colonel Posey, their 
commander, wrote that they were ' ' in great distress for 
shoes, shirts, and overalls." They had marched over three 
hundred miles barefoot, but Georgia was powerless to help 
them. 

8. All over the State great want was felt, and many of 
the soldiers were half naked, and nearly all barefoot. Food 
was scarce and sickness general. Every thing was held at 
high price ; salt sold at two dollars per quart, and a pair of 
shoes for twenty-five or thirty dollars. As the farmers had 
turned soldiers, few crops had been \'.V>ed, and the Indians 
had burned or destroyed many of these. Almost a famine 
overspread the whole country. Accordingly General Wayne 
had great difficulty in supporting his troops. 

9. While in this condition he learned that a body of In- 
dians were marching to Savannah to reinforce that garrison, 
and the famous Colonel Brown had gone out to act as escort. 



1782.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 97 

They had camped near Ogeechee Ferry, and a thick, tangled 
swamp lay between them and Wayne's troops. But the un- 
daunted general began a night march through the thickets, 
and reached the enemy by midnight, when a charge was or- 
dered, and Wayne's men burst upon the enemy. Brown and 
his party were thrown into confusion, and precipitately fled 
into the woods and swamp. But for their flight they would 
have been captured, with their arms and horses, which they 
abandoned in their haste. Thirty were taken prisoners, and 
the rest reached Savannah in scattered parties. Wayne 
marched immediately to that city, and marshaled his troops 
before the town, but as General Alured Clarke did not come 
out to meet him he returned to Ebenezer. 

10. One week after Brown's defeat Sir James Wright sent 
an express to General Wayne containing the acts of Parlia- 
ment in 1782, and expressing a desire for a speedy recon- 
ciliation between the contending forces. This letter was 
sent to General Greene, who transmitted it to Congress. 
The end of the war was not far off. Governor Wright and 
Governor Martin entered into certain stipulations, and ap- 
pointed a day for the British to deliver Savannah into the 
hands of the Americans. 

11. July II, 1782, the American troops paraded before the 
town, and the gallant Major James Jackson received the sur- 
render of the city fro— <-he hands of the British officers. On 
the same day the British embarked in their vessels and the 
Americans marched into the city. Georgia's battles were 
over; freedom and peace had arrived; Georgia was a free 
and independent State. 

12. November 30, 1782, a treaty of peace w^as signed be- 
tween Great Britain and the United States at Paris. By the 
treaty, the King of Great Britain acknowledged the inde- 
pendence of the thirteen States, and declared them free and 
sovereign. The war had lasted seven years, and the United 
States was now a separate and independent government. 

9 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1783. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

1783-1785. 

Lyman Hall Elected Governor.— Confiscation of Royal Property.— John 
Houston Elected Governor. — Establishment of the University. — Land 
Court.— Samuel Elbert Elected Governor.— Indian Treaty. 

YMAN HALL was elected Governor January 9, 
1783, and on the 31st, George Walton was elected 

r'^ chief-justice. The General Assembly met at Sa- 
vannah after the evacuation by the British. But much 
dissatisfaction prevailed, because the seat of govern- 
ment was so far distant from the western boundaries 
of the State, requiring a long and expensive journey to reach 
it from many points. Hence, in May, 1783, the council re- 
solved to make Augusta the capital of the State. 

2. July 8, 1783, the Assembly met in Augusta, and Gov- 
ernor Hall addressed them a message full of noble senti- 
ments. He advised them to labor for the benefit of the 
State, and especially to relieve the financial embarrassments 
that the war had created. Accordingly the legislature lev- 
ied a tax upon slaves, town, property, and land. They also 
took measures to confiscate and appropriate the property of 
those adherents to the crown who had fived in Georgia. 
This confiscation had begun in 1778, and all the property 
owned by the royaUsts in Georgia was seized and sold for 
the public benefit. 

8. In November, 1783, John Twiggs, Elijah Clarke, Ed- 
ward Telfair, William Glascock, Andrew Burns, commis- 
sioned by the State, met the Creek nation at Augusta, and 
made a treaty with them by which another cession of ter- 
ritory was obtained. This territory was surveyed and divided 



1786.] ADMINISTRATION OF HOUSTON. 99 

into two counties, Franklin and Washington, and distributed 
in bounties to the soldiers of the Revolution. 

4. January, 1784, John Houston was again elected Gov- 
ernor of Georgia. He had occupied nearly every prominent 
place of trust in Georgia. He was one of the four men who 
signed the call for a meeting of the friends of liberty, was 
elected by the Provincial Congress to represent Georgia in 
the general gathering of the colonies, and now for the second 
time had been elected Governor. 

5. It was during the time when Houston was Governor 
that the attention of the people was first particularly drawn 
to the cause of education. In July, 1783, the charter of 
the Richmond Academy, situated at Augusta, was granted 
by the legislature. It was among the oldest incorporated 
institutions of learning in the United States. 

6. February 25, 1784, a resolution was adopted, and Hous- 
ton requested to ' ' grant eight land warrants for five thousand 
acres each, in the name of John Houston, James Habersham, 
and others, for a college that is to be established in this 
State." Under this resolution the secretary of state made out 
the eight warrants — four or five thousand acres each in 
Franklin County, and four or five thousand acres each in 
Washington County, to be the endowment of the college. 

7. In 1785, the legislature again took up the question, and 
passed an act providing that the Governor, Speaker of the 
House, Executive Council, and Chief Justice should be a 
Board of Visitors, and that John Houston, James Habersham, 
William Few, Joseph Clay, Abram Baldwin, William Houston, 
Nathan Brownson, John Habersham, Abriel Holmes, Larkin 
Davis, Hugh Lawson, William Glascock, and Benjamin Tal- 
liaferro should be the Board of Trustees. These *wo bodies 
together were to be called the Senatus Academicus of the 
University of Georgia. 

8. In 1786, the trustees met in Augusta^ and selected a 



100 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1784. 

lot of land in Greene County, and began the laying out of 
a small town, the present city of Greensboro, the first contem- 
plated site of the University. The first meeting of the Sen- 
atus Academicus was held at Louisville, in November, 1799, 
and Joseph Meigs was chosen the first professor, with a sal- 
ary of $1,500. 

9. In 1800, a new board of trustees was elected, and also 
a new board of visitors, consisting of the Governor, the 
Judges of the Superior Court, the President of the Senate, 
the Speaker of the House, and certain Senators. In 1800, 
Professor Joseph Meigs was made the first president of the 
University. 

10. Dissatisfaction with the site at Greensboro being felt, 
the board appointed Abram Baldwin, John Milledge, John 
Twiggs, Hugh Lawson, and George Walton to select a site 
in Jackson County, and to contract for the erection of the 
college. John Milledge, the governor of the State, then gave 
seven hundred acres to the University, upon which the build- 
ings were erected. Parts of the seven hundred acres were 
afterwards sold, and the city of Athens built thereon. This 
is the early history of the University of Georgia. 

11, It will be remembered that in 1774, a large tract of 
land was obtained from the Indians in payment of their 
debts. This cession was named Wilkes County, and for a 
long time remained unexplored and unsurveyed. When the 
war of the Revolution had ended, and the brave patriots 
who had served in it had lost their all, the legislature de- 
termined to reward them by giving to such as had served 
their country a tract of land whereon to live. 

12, To carry this design the Land Act of 1784 passed by 
the legislature, and a Land Court established in Augusta. 
The duty of this court was to receive and investigate claims 
to this ceded land, and to issue warrants to those entitled 
to any part of it. 



1785.] ADMINISTRATION OF ELBERT. 1.01 

13. The Land Court was opened in Augusta, the first Tues- 
day in April, 1784, with John Habersham as president. 
About five thousand persons appHed for grants of lands, and 
were from the following classes: Those who had remained 
in Georgia and served in the war; those who had been 
Georgians and had gone to other States, and there served 
faithfully in the cause of liberty; those who had been ready 
at a moment's notice to take up arms for the defense of 
Georgia, and those marines who had served along the coast 
and in the harbors. 

14. Eventually every man received his warrant. Other 
persons were also given land in Georgia for distinguished 
services. Among them General George Matthews, of Vir- 
ginia, who moved to Georgia, and was donated a body of 
land. Count D'Estaing was also voted twenty thousand acres 
as a token of the appreciation of his devotion to the Amer- 
ican cause. This gift greatly affected the noble count, who 
was then upon a sick-bed from a dangerous wound, and he 
wrote a very grateful letter of thanks. 

15. July, 1785, Samuel Elbert was unanimously elected 
Governor. Governor Elbert was much concerned about the 
Indians, who were making depredations upon the frontier. 
The general government had appointed certain commission^ 
ers to meet the Creeks and Cherokees, and to settle the 
boundary lines between them and Georgia. Georgia objected 
to this interference, and appointed Edward Telfair, William 
Few, and James Jackson to attend this treaty held at Galph- 
inton, in Jefferson County, to see that the rights of Georgia 
were not invaded. Although nothing of consequence oc- 
curred between Georgia and the general government at that 
time, yet this was the beginning of a series of troubles which 
did not end until the last tribe of Indians was removed from 
the State. 



102 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1786 



CHAPTER XX. 

1786—1791. 

Edward Telfair Elected Governor.— Death of General Greene.— Troubles 
About the State Papers.— George Matthews Elected Governor.— Bound- 
ary Between Georgia and South Carolina.— Ratification of Constitution 
of United States.— Convention of 1789.— Washington visits Georgia. 




ANUARY 9, 1786, Edward Telfair was elected gov- 
ernor of Georgia. At that time the Indians were 
again threatening the State, and Governor Telfair 

was much engaged in the settlement of this troublesome 

question. 

2. In June, 1786, General Nathaniel Greene, died in his 
residence at "Mulberry Grove," fourteen miles from Savan- 
nah. His remains were carried down the Savannah River 
to the city, and met by a large military and civil procession. 
With muffled drums and reversed arms the procession went 
to Bonaventure Cemetery where all that remained of the 
soldier and statesman was confided to the family vault. 
The nation went in mourning, and wept the death of this 
revolutionary hero. 

3. Toward the close of Governor Telfair's administration 
the State was found to be a million dollars in debt. The 
legislature ordered the issuing of $150,000 in bills of credit 
which should be a legal tender in all cases. Congress had 
at that time changed the currency from pounds, shillings, 
and pence to dollars, dimes, and cents. The issuing of paper 
bills to relieve the the war debt was done in nearly every 
State in the Union. 

4. January 9, 1787, George Matthews was elected governor 
of Georgia. He has been referred to already as having come 



1788.] ADMINISTRATION OF MATTHEWS. 103 

from Virginia, since the war, and settled upon a tract of 
land granted to him by the legislature. His eminent talents 
were soon brought into use, and he was thus early raised 
to the highest office in the State. 

5. It was during this administration that the boundary 
line between Georgia and South Carolina was settled, April 
24, 1787, John Habersham, John Houston, and Lachlan 
Mcintosh from Georgia, met Charles C. Pinckney, Andrew 
Pickens, and Pierce Butler from South Carolina, in Beau- 
fort, and there arranged the present boundary line between 
the two States. It was arranged that the Savannah River 
up to the Tugaloo River, and thence along that river to its 
source should be the eastern boundary of Georgia. A line 
drawn due west, from thence to the northern boundary of 
Georgia. This amicable settlement removed one cause of 
dispute between the two colonies. 

6. The Continental Congress called a convention to meet 
February 21, 1787, in order to revise the articles of con- 
federation, and to establish a constitution of the United 
States. Georgia co-operated heartily, and sent William Few, 
WiUiam Houston, William Pierce, Abram Baldwin, George 
Walton, and Nathaniel Pendleton delegates to Philadelphia. 
Only two of the Georgia delegates were signers of the Con- 
stitution — Abram Baldwin and William Few. 

7. According to the request of Congress, Georgia called 
a convention at Augusta, October, 1787, and undertook a 
due and careful consideration of the Constitution that Con- 
gress had adopted. After several weeks the convention fully 
ratified and adopted the proposed Constitution without any 
changes or amendments whatsoever, January 2, 1788, Georgia 
was the fourth State to enter the Union by ratifying the Con- 
stitution, and the Augusta forts fired a salute of thirteen guns 
when the last name was signed. 

8. January 25, 1788, George Handly was elected gov- 
ernor. He had been an officer of merit and a worthy patri- 



104 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1788. 

otic gentleman. General James Jackson had been offered 
the office of governor, but he declared himself too young for 
the responsibility, and refused the honor conferred upon him. 

9. It was now time for the imperfect constitution of 
Georgia, adopted in 1777, to undergo revision, and be 
adapted to that of the general government. Accordingly 
the legislature declared that as soon as nine States had rati- 
fied the Federal Constitution, that each county of Georgia 
should name three fit and discreet persons to be convened 
at Augusta, and that they should "arrange, digest, and alter 
the old constitution of 1777, and make it an instrument 
more fit for the people of Georgia." 

10. November 4, 1788, the convention met in Augusta 
and Governor Handly was chosen chairman. After tv/enty 
days of deliberation a revised form of the constitution was 
agreed to by the convention, signed, printed, and distributed 
over the State. This revised instrument was made subject 
to the action of another convention to be held January 4, 
1789. 

11. In the meantime the legislature met and chose electors 
for the first President and Vice-President of the United States. 
The other States did likewise, and the election being held, 
George Washington was elected President and John Adams 
Vice-President. The new government of the United States 
went into operation March 4, 1789. 



12. When the meeting of the second Constitutional Con- 
vention of Georgia took place, certain other amendments and 
alterations were adopted and published, but the constitution 
was not adopted. Meanwhile, January 7, 1789, George Wal- 
ton was elected Governor, and called a third convention to 
meet in Augusta, May 4, 1789. This convention met, and 
May 6, 1789, adopted the new constitution. This was agreed 
to by the governor, was ratified by the people, and a salute 
of eleven guns was fired, and public rejoicings were held. 



790.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF TEIFAIR. 



105 



13. The new constitution went into effect on the first 
Monday in October, 1789. On the 9th of November, 1790, 
Edward Telfair was elected the first governor under the new 
constitution. 



14. December 8, 1790, 
Congressional districts ac- 
cording to the provisions 
of the new constitution. 
Camden, Glynn, Liberty, 
Chatham, and Effingham, 
composed the lower dis- 
trict; Burke, Richmond, 
and Washington the mid- 
dle district; and Wilkes, 
Frankhn, and Greene the 
upper district. On the 
first Monday in January. 
James Jackson was elect- 
ed to represent the low- 
er district in Congress ; 
Abram Baldwin the mid- 
dle district, and George 
Matthews the upper dis- 
trict. 



the State was divided into three 




George Walton. 



15. George Washington, the President of the United States, 
determined to make a tour through the Southern States. In 
May, 1 791, he arrived at Savannah, and was met with great 
pomp and enthusiasm by the authorities and the people. 
The people from all parts of Georgia had assembled and 
gave demonstration of the love they felt toward their chief- 
tain. He was provided with an escort of horse and pro- 
ceeded to Augusta, the seat of government, May i8th, where 
Governor Telfair and all the civil and military officers met 
him, and presented him congratulatory addresses. At Au- 
gusta, General Washington visited the Richmond Academy, 



106 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1792. 



and presented William H. Crawford, a young teacher, with 
a copy of Caesar's Commentaries. He remained in Georgia 
for a week and was escorted to South Carolina and followed 
by the prayers and blessings of a grateful people. 

16. The administration of Governor Telfair had been one 
of peace and good will, and Georgia was daily increasing 
in prosperity and riches. The population had increased to 
nearly eighty-three thousand, while the value of the exports 
was $491,250 yearly. 

17. Two new States, Kentucky and Vermont, were ad- 
mitted into the Union in 1791, now making fifteen the total 
number. 

It is also an interesting fact that at this time, 1792, Eli 
Whitney, residing near Savannah, invented the cotton gin, 
which gave very soon a great impetus to the cultivation of 
cotton in the Southern States. 




[793-] ADMINISTRATION OF MATTHEWS. 107 



CHAPTER XXI. 

1793—1796. 

George Matthews Re-elected Governor. — Elijah Clarke's Settlement. — Con- 
stitutional Convention of 1795. — Jared Irwin Elected Governor. — Treaty 
with the Indians. 

CTm N November, 1793, the General Assembly chose George 
l^^l Matthews a second time governor of Georgia. 

2. About this time General Elijah Clarke gave Governor 
Matthews considerable trouble by his interference with the 
Indian tribes. General Clarke was a rough, illiterate man, of 
great self-will, and with but little respect for governmental 
authority. He and General Twiggs had made a treaty with 
the Creek Indians in 1785, which had been set aside by the 
general government in 1790, by another treaty in New York 
City. 

3. A party of Creeks under the famous Alexander McGilli- 
vray had been invited to New York City, and were enter- 
tained in the most sumptuous manner. A treaty of peace 
was made with them, and a cession of land obtained from 
them, and another portion of land already obtained by a 
former treaty was restored to them. 

4. Alexander McGillivray, the chief of the Creeks, was 
the son of a Scotchman by a Creek woman of high rank. 
He possessed high mental endowments, was of immense in- 
fluence among the Creek nation, and of implacable hatred to 
the American government. He had resisted every effort 
Georgia had made for a treaty, had continually stirred up 
border wars, and given much trouble to the governors of 
Georgia. 

5. This last treaty was not as advantageous to Georgia as 
the former one made by Clarke and Meigs. Thereupon Gen- 



108 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1794. 

eral Clarke took offense, collected a band of followers, and 
took forcible possession of the land that he considered as 
rightly belonging to Georgia on the south-west side of the 
Oconee River. He established a settlement in the Indian 
lands on the Oconee River, built houses, forts, and instituted 
a form of military government, at the head of which he 
placed himself. 

6. Governor Matthews in May, 1794, as soon as he heard 
of this illegal settlement ordered General Irwin "to direct 
the settlers to remove." The general government advised 
Governor Matthews to take every measure to remove these 
setders, as the consequencces might be ruinous to the coun- 
try, involving the infant government in a bloody Indian war. 
General Clarke instead of removing his men sent answer to 
Governor Matthews, through General Irwin, posidvely refus- 
ing to do so. 

7. Governor Matthews justly incensed at these illegal ac- 
tions, and alarmed for the consequences, ordered General 
Clarke and his followers to be arrested and brought to jus- 
tice. When the news of these prompt measures reached 
General Clarke, he abandoned his settlement and gave him- 
self up to the authorises of Wilkes County. Upon being 
brought to trial, and his case maturely considered, he was 
discharged. 

8. But this discharge only fixed General Clarke in his op- 
position to the governor. He again called together his fol- 
lowers, and crossed over the Oconee River into the Indian 
lands, and laid out his town upon a larger scale and made 
active preparations for its defense. Governor Matthews at 
once determined to resort to force, and break down this 
movement which was creating such discontent among the 
Indian allies, and threatening a rupture of the late treaty of 
peace. General Twiggs was therefore ordered to march to 
the place and try the effect of argument upon the obdurate 
Clarke, and if that resource failed to destroy his town. 



1 796. ] ADMINISTRA TION OF MA TTHE WS. 109 

9. General Clarke and General Twiggs had a long confer- 
ence, but persuasion had no effect upon Clarke, who deter- 
mined to hold his ground. Thereupon General Twiggs 
marched his army to the forts, and proceeded to make the 
most warlike demonstration. A battle w^as imminent. 

10. But Clarke, who had not counted upon an actual en- 
gagement of troops now hastened to send word to General 
Irwin that he would evacuate his post if he and his men 
should be protected in their lives and property. This being 
promised the troops marched out, and the settlement of Gen- 
eral Clarke was burned to the ground. 

11. This able and ambitious man was much censured for 
his turbulent conduct. He retired to Washington, Wilkes 
County, humbled and defeated, and there soon afterward 
died. 

12. Agreeable to a provision of the constitution of 1789, 
a convention was called at Louisville, in Jefferson County, 
in May, 1795, to revise the constitution and remedy any of 
its defects. Noble Wimberly Jones was elected president, 
and the session lasted three weeks. The seat of govern- 
ment was moved from Augusta to Louisville by this conven- 
tion, and several constitutional changes were made. A pro- 
vision was again made for another convention to meet in 
1798, to make such further alterations of the constitution as 
experience and wisdom would suggest. 

13. Governor Matthews' time expired November 6, 1795, 
by the former constitution, but the late convention had 
changed the time of meeting of the General Assembly until 
January, and failed to make provision for an executive during 
the interval. So Georgia was without a governor for a few 
weeks. In January, 1796, Jared Irwin was elected gov- 
ernor, and the interrupted government was again put in op- 
eration. 

14. In May, 1796, a treaty was held with the Creek na- 

10 



no STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1797. 

tion at Colerain, in Camden County. Several days were 
spent in deliberation, and finally a treaty was concluded and 
signed by the Creeks and the United States Commissioners. 
But Georgia became incensed at the interference of the gen- 
eral government in State affairs, and especially on account 
of the taking of Georgia lands from the Indians to be claimed 
as the property of the United States. The treaty itself was 
of little consequence, for the restless Indians soon again 
raised the war-whoop along the frontier, and it was many 
years before Georgia was exempt from Indian troubles. 

15. Turning a glance at the general government we see 
John Adams elected President aud Thomas Jefferson Vice- 
President. The new administration went into office March, 
1797. George Washington retired from office, and made his 
memorable farewell address to the people of the United States. 
He retired to Mt. Vernon, his home in Virginia, on the Po- 
tomac, where he lived a few years enjoying the respect of his 
country. 



789.] THE YAZOO FRAUD. Ill 



CHAPTER XXII. 

THE YAZOO FRAUD. 
1789. 

Formation of South Carolina Company. — Other Companies. — First Grant 
of Yazoo Land. — Second Formation of Companies. — Second Grant of 
Land.— Veto of Governor Matthews.— Action of Senate.— Popular Indig- 
nation.— Rescinding Act.— Final Action.— James Jackson, Governor.— 
Constitution of 1798. 



.^ N event is now reached in the course of history 
^\01 which, during its occurrence, created immense ex- 
citement. It is tersely noted as the Yazoo Fraud. 

2. It will be remembered that the territory of 
Georgia extended to the Mississippi River on the west, and 
by all the treaties the State held all that region in undisputed 
control. 

3. In 1789, a party of men in South Carolina organized 
themselves into a company, and named their organization the 
South Carolina Yazoo Company. It was called Yazoo from 
the name of a river and of a region of land on the Missis- 
sippi once possessed by the Yazoo Indians, which this com- 
pany undertook to purchase from Georgia. 

4. Other companies were formed at the same time for the 
same purpose. The "Virginia Yazoo Company" was formed 
with the world-renowned orator, Patrick Henry, at its head- 
Another corporation was called The Tennessee Company. 
All these companies made application to the Georgia legisla- 
ture at the same time for grants of western lands. The sen- 
ate of Georgia was appHed to November 20, 1789, with ex- 
aggerated representations of the benefit accruing to Georgia 
and the general government by such grants. 



112 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1794. 

5. The agents of the various companies worked with great 
energy, and much excitement prevailed as to the issue. 
Soon another company called "The Georgia Company" was 
raised, and applied for Yazoo land. More and more inter- 
est was displayed by the people, and many began to look 
distrustfully upon these various companies. The glowing ac- 
counts of these agents had their effect, however, and in nine 
days the Yazoo bill passed the senate, and was signed by Gov- 
ernor Walton. 

6. By the provisions of this bill, which thus became law, 
the three companies from South Carolina, Virginia, and Ten- 
nessee, Georgia being excluded, received over twenty million 
acres of land in payment of $200,000, or one cent per acre. 
The wasteful legislation produced great indignation in Georgia, 
and provoked severe comment. But fortunately all the pro- 
visions of the grants were not fulfilled, and as the companies 
could not claim their lands this sale was never consummated. 

7. The attempted alienation of western lands, although the 
scheme failed, yet showed that the legislature was easily in- 
fluenced, and that the lands could be purchased. Hence 
other companies sprang up, and in 1794 the legislature re- 
ceived new proposals for the purchase of western territory. 

8. The companies formed this time were : ''The Georgia 
Company," ''The Virginia Yazoo Company," "The Tennes- 
see Company," and "The Georgia Mississippi Company." 
These companies applied for twenty-three million acres of 
land, and offered $500,000, or about two cents per acre. 

9. Matthews, who was then governor, was at first opposed 
to the passage of any bill granting these lands. A commit- 
tee from the body of agents therefore waited upon him, and 
presented the most favorable arguments for its passage, and 
sought to gain his approval. The bill passed the legislature, 
but the governor vetoed it. 

10. The veto checked the operations of the agents for a 



1796.] THE YAZOO FRAUD. 113 



time, but the companies persisted and finally overcame the 
governor's objections, so that he signified his willingness to 
sign the act. 

11. Accordingly a few days later another bill was intro- 
duced into the senate with a new title, but in import the 
same as that already vetoed. The senate then passed the 
fraudulent bill, and it received the signature of the governor. 
There were four companies under this grant: "The Georgia 
Company," ''The Georgia Mississippi Company," *'The 
Tennessee Company," "The Upper Mississippi Company." 
Thirty-five million acres of land was thus sold for $500,000, 
or for one cent and a half an acre. 

12. Of course the most violent opposition at once arose 
among the people. Many prominent men had remonstrated 
against the passage of the bill, and sent petitions to Governor 
Matthews to use his influence and his constitutional power to 
defeat it. William H. Crawford took an active part in the op- 
position as did other men of promise. Intense excitement 
prevailed, and great indignation was expressed against the 
legislature, and the executive legislators were accused of 
bribery and corruption, and the governor himself did not es- 
cape these charges. The people cried out for redress, and 
threatened violent opposition to the enforcement of the act. 

13. The senators in Congress from Georgia at that time 
w^ere James Gunn and James Jackson. The former of these 
had accepted a chief place in one of the Yazoo companies, 
and was charged with neglecting his senatorial duties while 
attending this fraudulent scheme. He, therefore, on his re- 
turn to Georgia found himself in great disfavor, and treated 
with indignation by the people. 

14. The other senator was the chivalrous James Jackson, 
who still enjoyed the confidence of the people. When Sen- 
ator Jackson heard of the attempt to procure the Yazoo lands 
he vehemently opposed the fraudulent scheme. When the 
bill at last passed and became a law, he resigned his seat in 



114 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1796. 

the Senate of the United States, and, returning to Georgia, 
engaged in thwarting what he called "a conspiracy of the 
darkest character and of dehberate villainy." He was re- 
ceived by the people with entire confidence, and was looked 
to as the leader who would conduct them back to the old 
honor and peace. They elected him a member of the legis- 
lature which was to meet on the second Tuesday in January, 
1796, in order that he might be in position to serve them. 

15. The legislature assembled amidst great excitement, 
and Governor Matthews sent them a message explaining the 
situation of affairs, and advising them if they could constitu- 
tionally do so to repeal the Yazoo Act of the past legislature. 
He told them that the various companies had paid into the 
treasury the amount required in payment, had canceled all 
the mortgages, and were in full possession of the land. He 
feared, however, that the repeal of the act would create new 
difficulties. The case had become complicated, and would 
require careful legislation. He denied all the charges made 
against his own integrity, and defying his accusers as ma- 
licious and slanderers, ended his message by giving in full 
the reasons which had led him to sign the offensive act. 

16. In this state of things, January 5, 1796, Jared Irwin 
was elected governor. The members of both branches of 
the new legislature had been elected with pledges to vote for 
the repeal of the Yazoo Act. Accordingly a committee of 
nine persons was appointed at once to investigate the validity 
and constitutionality of the act, of which committee James 
Jackson was made chairman. 

17. The committee made its report, declaring that the fraud 
and corruption by which the said act was obtained and the 
unconstitutionality of the same, evince the utmost depravity 
in the majority of the late legislature. They affirmed "that 
the fraud practiced to obtain it" made " it a nullity itself, and 
not binding or obligatory upon the people of this State." 

18. Soon after the report of the committee a bill drafted 



1796.] THE YAZOO FRAUD. 115 

by James Jackson, known as the Rescinding Act, was passed 
by both houses, and signed by Governor Irwin, February 
i3» 1796- This act states the fraudulent grounds upon which 
the Yazoo lands were obtained, and indignantly censures the 
perpetrators of the fraud. It further declares it to be the 
sense of the State of Georgia that the Yazoo Act is not bind- 
ing upon the people, and that the money paid into the treasury 
should be refunded, and the grants be considered annulled. 

19. A day or two after the passage of the Rescinding Act, 
when the people had been made thoroughly acquainted with 
the action of the legislature it was determined to burn the 
Yazoo Act, and purge the records of every thing relating to 
it. February 15, 1796, it was ordered by the legislature 
that a large fire should be kindled in front of the State-house, 
being lit from the sun by a burning-glass in order to burn 
the obnoxious papers with the fire of heaven. 

20. According to the programme the senate and the house 
met in the representative hall, and marched out in procession 
before the capital. When they reached the fire they formed 
a circle around it and reverently removed their hats. The 
committee appointed to obtain the papers and records handed 
them to the president of the senate. That officer deHvered 
them to the speaker of the house, from thence they were 
given to the clerk, and finally into the hands of the messen- 
ger. The messenger approached the fire and uttered the 
words : ' ' God save the State ! ! and long preserve her rights ! 
and may every attempt to injure them perish as these corrupt 
acts now do!!" Having pronounced this anathema he threw 
the papers into the fire and they were burned to ashes. 

21. After this dramatic exhibition of scorn at official dis- 
honor the members slowly marched back to the house, and 
work was again resumed. Their spirited action was hailed 
every- where with great applause. The people were deter- 
mined to maintain their rights and their honor, and this Yazoo 
Act they considered a violation of both. 



116 STUDENT' S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1798. 

22. But the persons who had been interested in the Yazoo 
sales took offense at this action of the legislature, and united 
in a powerful effort to defeat the operation of the Rescind- 
ing Act. They openly avowed their resolution to resist its 
authority, and threatened the officers of the government. 
The controversy was finally borne into the Congress of the 
United States, which appointed commissioners of the United 
States to meet commissioners of Georgia, and amicably settle 
the whole difficulty, which was done several years after. 
Jackson, Milledge, and Baldwin represented Georgia, and in 
1802, by the agreement of Georgia to cede all the territory 
now embraced by Alabama and Mississippi, the question 
of the Yazoo titles was turned over to settlement by the 
United States. 

23. General James Jackson was elected governor January 
12, 1798. His conspicuous action in regard to the Yazoo 
fraud greatly increased his popularity. He was the " idol of 
the people." He governed the State with zeal and prudence 
combined. His administration was particularly distinguished 
by the adoption of the great constitution of 1798. 

24. May 8, 1798, the constitutional convention met at Lou- 
isville, and elected Jared Irwin president. This convention 
was the last of a series of conventions which had considered 
the form of constitution which the State required after the 
Constitution of the United States had been adopted. These 
bodies had all proceeded with care, and this convention per- 
fected their work. It remained in session three weeks and 
completed the task. The constitution was duly signed, and 
became the fundamental law of Georgia, remaining such, 
with few changes, for a half century. 



END OF PART FIRST. 



PART SECOND 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

1799-1801. 




Meeting of Legislature.— Great Seal.— Judiciary System.— Death of Wash- 
ington.— Death of Clarke.— Jefferson Elected President of the United 
States.— Condition of State,— Indians.— Emanuel, Acting Governor. 

Mw^-a^ EORGIA now enters on a new era of development 

# under the wise provisions of the new constitution. 

^^ The illustrious James Jackson was governor, Abra- 

^11^ ham Baldwin and James Gunn were senators, James 

W Jones and Benjamin Taliaferro were representatives 

in the Congress of the United States. 

2, The State legislature met in Louisville, in Jefferson 
County, on the second Monday in June, 1799. The twenty- 
four counties of the State were represented by twenty-four 
senators and seventy-five representatives. 

3. An interesting measure was the adoption of the Great 

Seal of the State which had been the subject of discussion \ / 

for some time. The following seal was adopted: A circular 

disc of several inches in diameter; on one side a view of 

the sea-shore, with a ship bearing the flag of the United 

States riding at anchor near a wharf receiving on board 

hogsheads of tobacco and bales of cotton, emblematic of 

the exports of the State; at a little distance a boat landing 

from the interior of the State with hogsheads, boxes, etc., 

representing internal traffic; in the background a man in 

the act of plowing, and a flock of sheep shaded by a flourish- 

(117) 



118 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1799. 



ing tree; the motto on this side, ' 'Agriculture and Com- 
merce, 1799." On the other side three pillars supporting 
an arch, with the word *' Constitution" engraved on it as 
the emblem of the Constitution sustained by the three de- 
partments of the government. The words ''Wisdom, Jus- 
tice, Moderation," were engraved on a wreath around 




Seal of State. 

these pillars, one word on each pillar, and near the left hand 
pillar a man with a drawn sword represented the military 
defense of the State. The inscription on this side, "State 
of Georgia, 1799." This Great Seal of Georgia was adopted 
October 8th, and when made it was deposited in the office 
of the secretary of state to be attached to all official papers 
of the government. The old seal was formally broken in 
the presence of the governor. 

4. The judiciary system of the State was revised at this 
session of the legislature. To improve the judiciary system, 
the State was divided into three judicial circuits. The coun- 
ties of Camden, Glynn, Mcintosh, Liberty, Bryan, Chatham, 
Effingham, and Bullock composed one district, called the East- 
ern Circuit. The counties of Scriven, Burke, Montgomery, 



1 799 • ] AD MINIS TRA TION OF J A CKSON. 1 1 9 

Washington, Warren, Richmond, Columbia, and Jefferson 
composed another district, known as the Middle Circuit. 
The counties of Greene, Jackson, Franklin, Hancock, Ogle- 
thorpe, Elbert, Wilkes, and Lincoln composed a third district, 
known as the Western Circuit. For each of these three cir- 
cuits the act prescribed that a judge of the superior court 
should be elected every third year by the general assembly. 
David B. Mitchell was elected judge of the Eastern Circuit; 
George Walton of the Middle Circuit; Thomas P. Carnes of 
the Western Circuit. The three judges were required to 
alternate in the circuits so that no two terms of court in a 
county should be held by the same judge successively. The 
courts were held twice a year in each county, and each court 
had a clerk and a sheriff. The office of attorney-general was 
vested in one person for each circuit. There was no supreme 
court yet established, but the judges of the superior court 
were required to meet annually at Louisville, on the second 
Monday in July, to make rules for the government of the 
superior courts, to determine such points of law as were re- 
serve(^ for argument, and to give opinion on constitutional 
questions referred to them by the executive. The superior 
court had general jurisdiction in civil and criminal cases, 
and of suits for any debt over thirty dollars. The grand 
jury was to consist of not less than eighteen nor more than 
twenty-three men, and the judges were required to report all 
criminal cases. 

5. Another class of courts were called inferior courts. 
These courts were held twice a year in each county. The 
officers were appointed by the general assembly, and were 
subject to the rules governing the superior court. Justice 
courts were also to be held monthly in each county, and 
have jurisdiction in suits for sums not exceeding thirty dol- 
lars. The justices were appointed by the inferior courts. 
Greater simplicity in pleading was also provided for. All 
defects in form could be remedied on motion. Under these 
changes the judiciary system was considerably improved. 



120 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1799. 



6. Another act at this session provided that the general 
election should be held the first Monday in October, and 
the voting should be by ballot. Members of Congress were 
to be elected every two years. The time of the meeting 
of the general assembly was changed from January to the 
first Monday in November. 

7. At the close of this year, December 14, 1799, George 
Washington died at his home at Mount 
Vernon in Virginia. His remains were 
deposited in the family vault near the 
Potomac River. The most solemn and 
impressive funeral ceremonies were held 
over the State. All over the Union, offi- 
cers, civil and military, wore mourning for 
six weeks, and all national flags hung at 
half-mast. Appropriate resolutions were 
passed by Congress and the legislatures 
of the several States. While the Union 
was in grief for this illustrious national 
hero, Georgia sustained a loss by the death 
of General Elijah Clarke, December 15, 
1799, o^^ d^y ^fter the death of Washing- 
ton. General Clarke was brave and patri- 
otic. His military services during the Revolution were val- 
uable to the country, and deserved the demonstration of 
grief at his loss made by his own peoi:)le. 

8. After the shock of the Revolution had passed away, 
and under the administration of Washington, the progress 
of the colony was rapid. Washington was President eight 
years and was succeeded by John Adams. At this time the 
people of the United States divided into two great political 
parties : one, called the Federalists, was led by John Adams, 
the President : the other party, called the Republicans, was 
led by Thomas Jefferson, the Vice-President. These two 
parties differed upon the construction to be placed upon the 




Washington Monu- 
ment. 



[8oo.] ADMINISTRATION OF JACKSON. 121 



Constitution of the United States. The Federalists favored a 
strong national government, even if the power of the States 
was weakened, while the Republicans upheld the sover- 
eignty of the States, and favored the policy of carefully 
>jTiaintaining the rights which the States had reserved on 
/entering the Union. In 1800, the election for President was 
held, when John Adams was defeated and Thomas Jefferson 
elected. Aaron Burr was elected Vice-President. Georgia 
voted for Jefferson and Burr. 

9. The population of Georgia had increased to about one 
hundred and sixty-three thousand whites and blacks, having 
gained over eighty thousand in ten years. The population 
of Savannah, the chief town, was then five thousand one 
hundred and forty-seven. The exports, which were prin- 
cipally rice, indigo, tobacco, corn, cotton, some sago, naval 
stores, leather, deer-skin, myrtle, snake-root, live stock, and 
lumber, amounted to one and three-fourths million dollars, 
having increased one and one-fourth millions in ten years. 
The principal imports were West India produce, dry-goods, 
wines, teas, beef, butter, cheese, potatoes, cider, shoes, and 
fish. Cotton cultivation was now becoming a popular in- 
dustry, and as the demand increased the attention of the 
people was turned still more toward its cultivation. Previous 
to the year 1783, it was not cultivated as an article of com- 
merce at all. The cultivation was introduced by Josiah 
Tatnall and John Milledge, in 1779, on an extensive scale. 
In 1790, about twenty thousand pounds of cotton (fifty bales) 
were brought to Savannah for exportation. The invention 
of the cotton gin by Eli Whitney, in 1792, gave great im- 
petus to the cultivation of cotton. In 1796, there were one 
million seven hundred thousand pounds (about four thou- 
sand bales) produced, and much of it shipped to Northern 
and foreign ports. A certain kind of cotton was also grown 
on the islands, called Sea Island Cotton. It was found to 
be of extraordinary fineness, and came at once into demand 
at a high price. 

11 



122 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1800. 



10. Georgia at this date extended from the Atlantic Ocean 
to the Mississippi River. It then embraced the present States 
of Alabama and Mississippi, and was the largest State in the 
Union. Its area was one hundred and seventy-three thou- 
sand seven hundred and fifty-four square miles. It was a 
broad domain, well watered, fertile, with fine forests and 
generous climate. 

11. Much of this extensive territory of Georgia and Ten- 
nessee was occupied by the Cherokee 
and Creek Indians. The Cherokees 
lived in the northern part of Georgia 
on the south side of the Tennessee 
River, and along the head-waters of 
the Coosa. Their whole number was 
estimated at two thousand five hun- 
dred and three persons, living in forty 
villages. The Cherokee men were 
tall, well formed, and graceful. Their 
complexion was of a lighter hue than 
that of other tribes. The women were 
slender in form and delicate in ap- 
pearance, sometimes as beautiful and 

nearly as fair as their white sisters. The men were grave, 
dignified, and decorous; with strangers they were reserved 
and reticent. At one time they were powerful, but now 
they were reduced in numbers and spirit. The Creeks were 
more powerful, numbering nearly seventeen thousand souls, 
of which five thousand two hundred and eighty were war- 
riors. They lived along the banks of the Chattahoochee 
River, south of the Cherokees. They were similar to their 
northern neighbors in many respects, but had a haughtier 
and more defiant spirit, with an intense veneration for the 
traditions and landmarks of their fathers. Their love for 
the soil which the tribe has long possessed was strong, and 
caused their great resistance to the encroachments of the 




Cherokee Indian. 



i8oo.] ADMINISTRATION OF EMANUEL. 123 

whites. At this period, however, Georgia and the Indian 
tribes were Hving on peaceable terms. 

12. Religion, education and literature were yet imperfectly 
cared for. In Savannah there were but four churches. Bap- 
tists and Methodists were the most numerous denominations. 
There were few Quakers and one church of Roman Cath- 
olics. 

13. David Emanuel, who had been elected president of 
the senate, acted governor from March 3, 1801, Governor 
Jackson yielding the control of the State into his hands to 
enter the United States Senate. David Emanuel had come 
to Georgia in 1770, and had early taken up arms in its 
defense. During the war of the Revolution, he acted a 
conspicious part in several engagements. On one occasion, 
he and two of his friends were captured by a party of Brit- 
ish, and carried to McBean's Creek, in Burke County, to 
be shot. A large fire being kindled, Emanuel and his two 
friends were stripped of their clothes, placed near the fire, 
and three soldiers were detailed to shoot them. At the 
word ''fire" the two friends fell dead, but Emanuel being 
unhurt quickly leaped over the fire, and making good his 
escape, saved his life. 



124 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. . [i8o] 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

1801—1802. 

Tatnall Elected Governor.— Franklin College.— Cession of Mississippi Ter- 
ritory.— Treaty at Ft, Wilkinson.— Benjamin Hawkins.— Duel between 
Crawford and Van Allen.— Milledge Elected Governor. 

^r|T^HEN the legislature met in November, 1801, Josiah 
^jiffiju Tatnall was elected governor. He was the son of 
^''^^^^^ Colonel Josiah Tatnall, and was born at Savannah. 
Having received his education at the North, he devoted 
much of his time to military pursuits and studies. He had 
been in the legislature frequently, and was a member of that 
body when the Yazoo Act was rescinded. The father of 
Governor Tatnall had been among those banished by the 
State, 1782, and his property confiscated. When the legis- 
lature met and elected his son governor, their good will was 
shown by an act which passed soon after recalling the ban- 
ished father, and restoring him to full rights of citizenship. 
When the act went to the governor's office he signed it as 
follows : ' ' With lively expressions of gratitude I affix my 
signature to this act." 

2. During this year Franklin College was opened. A 
suitable building had not yet been erected, and few students 
had applied. Mr. Josiah Meigs, from Yale College, had been 
called to the presidency, and, coming to Athens, immediately 
opened the college. There were but two houses in Athens 
at that time. Only six academies had been incorporated in 
the State. Savannah, Augusta, Sunbury, Louisville, and one 
each in Burke and Wilkes counties. In the spring of 1804, 
the first commencement of the State university was held in 
Athens. The college building being in an uncompleted con- 
dition, the exercises were conducted in the open air under an 



i8o2.] ADMINISTRATION OF TATNALL. 125 

oak tree. Ten persons graduated. They were Gibson Clarke, 
A. S. Clayton, J. V. Harris, Jared Irwin, William H. Jack- 
son, James Jackson, R. Rutherford, William Williamson, and 
William Rutherford. 

3. The literature of Georgia was in its infancy. During 
the year 1802, Rev. Dr. Holcomb, of Savannah, commenced 
a quarterly periodical of 
about forty pages, called 
the Georgia Analytic Re- 
pository. It was literary 
and religious, and contin- 
ued for about two years. 
It was among the first 
of its kind in America. 
The Georgia Gazette, 
which had been pub- 
lished in Savannah be- 
fore and during the rev- 
olutionary war, expired 
in 1799. The Augusta 
Chronicle was founded in 
1785, and still exists, an 
ornament to the press of 
the State. The Savannah 

Republican was founded Abraham Baldwin. 

by Lyon & Moore, in 1798, and the Washington News was 
established in 1800 by Alexander M. Milligan, and called 
the Washington Gazette. The Augusta Herald was also pub- 
lished in Augusta as a weekly, and two other smaller papers 
in different parts of the State. So that in 1802 there were 
six newspapers and one periodical published in Georgia. 

4. In the year 1802, all questions about the Mississippi ter- 
ritory, which had long agitated the public mind in Georgia, 
were finally settled. By the act of December 2, 1800, Abra- 
ham Baldwin, James Jackson, senators, and James Jones and 




126 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1802. 

Benjamin Taliaferro, representatives of Georgia in Congress, 
were authorized to meet any persons appointed on the part 
of the United States to determine these questions. Full power 
was given to them to treat for the sale of all or any part of 
the territory of Georgia lying west of the Chattahooche river, 
and composing the present states of Alabama and Mississippi. 
James Jones, one of the commissioners, was taken sick in 
Washington City, and died January 12, 1801, and John Mil- 
ledge was appointed commissioner in his place. James Mad- 
ison, Albert Gallatin, and Levi Lincoln, were appointed on 
the part of the United States, and these six commissioners 
held a meeting in Washington City in April 1802, and after 
long and careful deliberation, decided upon the following 
terms of treaty : 

5. Georgia cedes to the United States all the territory be- 
longing to her south of Tennessee, and west of the Chattahoo- 
chee River, up to the great bend, thence west of the line di- 
rect to Nickajack Creek, near the present city of Chattanooga, 
under these conditions : 

(i.) That out of the proceeds of the sale of these lands, the 
United States shall give to Georgia one milHon two hundred 
and fifty thousand dollars. 

(2.) That all persons who are settled within the said terri- 
tory shall be confirmed in all their titles by the United 
States government. 

(3.) That the ceded lands be considered a public fund, to 
be distributed by the United States in the proper manner and 
as other public funds in lands. 

(4.) That the United States, at their own expense, extin- 
guish for the use of Georgia as soon as the same can be 
peaceably done on reasonable terms, the Indian tribes to the 
county of Tallassee, to the lands occupied by the Creeks, and 
to those between the forks of the Oconee and Ocmulgee Riv- 
ers, for which several objects the President of the United 
States shall order that a treaty be immediately held with the 



i8o2.] ADMINISTRATION OF TATNALL. 127 

Indians, and that in like manner the United States shall extin- 
guish the Indian title to all the other lands within the State 
of Georgia. 

(5.) That the territory thus ceded shall forma State as soon 
as it shall contain sixty thousand inhabitants, and as such be 
admitted into the Union. 

(6.) The act of cession and agreement to be in full force 
as soon as the legislature of Georgia shall have given its con- 
sent. 

6. These articles were fully ratified in every part by the 
legislature of Georgia, June 16, 1802. Soon after this all the 
monies which had been paid into the treasury of Georgia by 
the Yazoo companies, were transferred to the treasury of 
the general government, and the troublesome dispute re- 
moved. 

7. By the fourth section of the first article of agreement, it 
was directed that a treaty be held with the Creek In- 
dians immediately, for the purpose of extinguishing their 
claim to the lands of Georgia, and providing suitable limits 
for their homes and hunting grounds. Accordingly, in June 
1802, James Wilkinson, Benjamin Hawkins, and Andrew 
Pickens, appointed by the President of the United States, 
met the Creeks on the Oconee River, just below the site of 
Milledgeville, at Fort Wilkinson, named in honor of one of 
the commissioners. Forty chiefs and warriors were present, 
and represented the flower of the Creek nation. 

8. After several days deliberation the Indian chiefs and 
the commissioners signed a treaty ceding to the Unit- 
ed States the land lying within the head waters of 
the Appalachee River, and between the Oconee and Oc- 
mulgee rivers. This cession included nearly all the lands 
between those rivers. In consideration of which the com- 
missioners agreed to pay to the Creek nation annually 
the sum of three thousand dollars until further treaty, 



128 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1802 

and one thousand dollars to the chiefs who administered the 
government. Also twenty-five thousand dollars in goods, 
merchandise, and in satisfying the debts due from the Creeks 
to the traders and settlers. It was also agreed that garrisons 
necessary for the protection of the frontiers should be estab- 
lished upon Indian lands, at places thought proper by the 
President of the United States, in the manner designated by 
a previous treaty at Colerain. This treaty was to become 
obligatory as soon as ratified by the President of the United 
States, with the advice and consent of the Senate. The treaty 
was signed at Fort Wilkinson by forty chiefs, and the com- 
missioners, June 16, 1802, and ratified January 11, 1803, by 
Thomas Jefferson, President. 

9. Colonel Benjamin Hawkins, who played so conspicuous 
a part in all the Indian treaties, and who proved so wise 
and prudent an agent for Indian affairs, was born in North 
Carolina, August 15, 1754. He was educated at Princeton 
College, but left his studies to engage in the Revolutionary 
struggle. He was an excellent French scholar, and it is said 
that General Washington in his intercourse with the French 
generals found Colonel Hawkins so great an assistance that 
he pressed him into constant service. In 1782 he was sent 
to Congress and again in 1783. He was noted for wisdom 
and inflexible integrity. In 1789 he was sent to the Senate 
of the United States, where he remained until General Wash- 
ington appointed him agent for Indian affairs South. He 
took up his abode among the Indians, identified himself 
with them, and labored earnestly to improve their condition. 
He built farms, houses, cleared lands, tempering the warlike 
natures of the savages, and stimulating them to agriculture 
and other peaceful pursuits. He soon became much loved 
by his Indian friends, and was present at all their councils, 
and listened to with great respect. 

10. The evil practice of dueling was, in this day, a fre- 
quent resort by men of prominence to settle disputes arising 



i8o2.] ADMINISTRATION OF MIILEDGE. 129 

from party causes. William H. Crawford, a brilliant young 
Virginian, recently come to Georgia, was drawn into a quar- 
rel and a duel with Peter L. Van Allen, then a soHcitor-gen- 
eral. They met July 31, 1802, at Sand Bar Ferry near 
Augusta, and exchanged two shots. The second fire was 
fatal to Van Allen, who fell, struck in the groin, and died in 
thirty-eight hours. One month from that time William Hunter 
fell in a similar duel with Colonel David B. Mitchell, after- 
ward governor of Georgia. 

11. In October, 1802, the general election for members 
of Congress took place. David Merriwether, Peter Early, 
Samuel Hammond, and John Milledge were elected repre- 
sentatives. When the legislature met in November, 1802, 
John Milledge was elected governor, and resigned his seat in 
Congress. Governor Milledge was born in Savannah, 1757, 
and received the best education the colony could give. He 
entered ardently into the war of the Revolution, and was 
made one of the party which took Governor Wright prisoner 
in his own house. He was present at the attack upon Sa- 
vannah, and evinced much courage. After the war he be- 
came a leading man in the State, and was ever actively en- 
gaged in promoting the welfare of Georgia. He was among 
the first to advance and urge the proposition to establish a 
State university, and during his term as governor gave at 
his personal expense a tract of land costing $4,000, to be a 
site for the college building. 



130 SI LJDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [i8oj 




CHAPTER XXV. 

1803-1806. 

Lottery System.— Head Rights.— Milledgeville.— Death of Tatuall.— Death 
of Walton.— Indian Treaty of 1803.— Trespassers on Indian Lands.— 
Lighthouses. — Boundary between Georgia and North Carolina. — Indian 
Treaty of 1805.— Death of Jackson.— Jared Irwin Elected Governor. 

HE lands obtained by the treaty at Fort Wilkinson, 

were divided by the legislature in May, 1803, into 

three counties, Wayne, Wilkinson, and Baldwin. 

The three counties were surveyed at the public expense, 

laid off into land districts, and subdivided into lots of 

a certain number of acres. 

2. These land lots were then distributed among the peo- 
ple by means of a plan called the Land-Lottery System. 
The system of the lottery was as follows: tickets numbered 
by the numbers of the lots were put in boxes to be the prizes, 
together with numerous blanks; the persons entitled to draw 
were '' all free white males, twenty one years of age, or older; 
every married man with children under age ; widows with 
children^ and all families of orphan minors." The lists of 
these persons were made out in each county and sent to the gov- 
ernor, who caused the drawing to be done under the care of 
five managers. Many persons drew only blanks. But others 
were the "fortunate drawers," and became entitled to the 
plots and grants of their lots, signed by the governor, and 
with the great seal of the State attached. 

3. Twelve months immediately after drawing was com- 
pleted, each fortunate drawer was required to pay into the 
State treasury, the sum of four dollars for every one hun- 
dred acres contained in his lot. These lots varied in 



1803.] ADMINISTRATION OF MILLEDGE. 131 

size, some being two hundred and two and one-half acres, 
others contained four hundred and ninety acres. Many for- 
tunate drawers compHed with the terms and took their titles, 
but others neglected to comply, and thus forfeited their rights. 
The lots which were thus ungranted were disposed of by fur- 
ther legislation. 

4. The act which provided for this distribution of the pub- 
lic lands is known as the Land-Lottery Act. The lottery sys- 
tem under this act was applied to all lands west of the Oco- 
nee, as they were acquired from the Indians, but all the lands 
that lie east of the Oconee were distributed under an older 
and different plan, known as the Head Rights System. The 
Oconee river is the dividing line, the east being Head Rights 
titles, and the west Land Lottery. The objects of both were 
the same, but the means employed were different. Both had 
tlie purpose of populating the country, and of reclaiming the 
wilderness. All the territory of Georgia was regarded as pub- 
lic domain, belonging to the State for distribution among the 
citizens. Georgia was the first and only State to adopt this 
method of distributing the public lands. 

5. The Head Rights System differed in many features 
from the lottery plan. By the Head Rights System any citi- 
zen was permitted to select and survey a body of unoccupied 
land to suit himself. Then he received a title called a Head 
Right land warrant, a warrant of survey which was issued on 
his paying a small fee and nominal price for the land. This 
document was his title to the land described in it, provided 
no one had previously appropriated the same tract. But the 
plan was not favorable to the security of titles, nor to the de- 
velopment of the State. Only the most desirable lands were 
surveyed, poorer sections were neglected, unequal de- 
velopments occurred, conflicting warrants were also issued, 
and frequent strife arose under the system. It was therefore 
abandoned for the better scheme. 

6. At the same session of the legislature, a resolution was 



132 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1803. 

passed providing that five commissioners should select a suit- 
able spot at the head of navigation of the Oconee river, and 
survey a tract of three thousand two hundred and forty and 
one-half acres, to be set apart for a town to be called Milledge- 
ville. The place was so named in honor of John Milledge, 
then governor, and was designed to be the future capital of 
the State. 

7. During this year a treaty was concluded between France 
and the United States, by which the territory of Louisiana, 
embracing all the country between the Mississippi River and 
the Rocky Mountains, was ceded to the United States in con- 
sideration of fifteen million dollars. This nearly doubled the 
territory of the United States. The treaty was also specially 
advantageous to Georgia, because the State was now pro- 
tected by the United States government from the Spanish and 
French. 

8. From all these causes Georgia advanced rapidly in ma- 
terial improvements ; in commerce it now ranked as the sixth 
State in the Union. 

9. On June 6, 1803, General Josiah Tatnall died in the 
West Indies. He had been governor only a few years before, 
and it was his dying request that his body should be brought 
to his native State. In compliance with this wish, Nathaniel 
Hall brought his remains to Savannah, and had them buried 
in Bonaventure. February 2, 1804, George Walton, a tried 
patriot, died at his home in Augusta, and was buried near 
the city with civic and military honors. At the time of his 
death he was judge of the Middle Circuit, and Benjamin 
Shrine was appointed to fill the vacancy. 

10. About the close of the year 1804, a treaty was made 
with the Creek Indians at the agency. In this treaty the In- 
dians ceded another body of their lands lying between the 
Oconee and Ocmulgee Rivers This treaty was signed by 
Eenjamin Hawkins, Hopie Micco, and several others. As 



i8o3.] ADMINISTRATION OF MILL EDGE. 133 

before, the territory was divided into lots and distributed by 
the Land-Lottery System. 

11. Although the Indian territory was thus being rapidly 
acquired and settled by the whites, yet there were some impa- 
tient spirits who regarded treaties as too slow a process. A 
number of these persons had moved across the Oconee River 
and settled on the Indian lands. This trespass on their 
rights caused the Indians not only to complain against the 
intrusion, but provoked them to commit several outrages. 

12. The complaints of the Indians reached the legislature, 
and an act was passed requiring the intruders to remove within 
a limited time, and in case of refusal a military force would 
be employed to drive them away. These measures caused 
the trespassers to vacate the Indian land and move back 
across the river, and the Indians were pacified. 

13. Brunswick, situated on a fine bay of the Atlantic coast, 
in Glynn county, grew rapidly, and greatly increased its ex- 
ports. The harbor being dangerous in case of storms, Georgia 
ceded to the United States four acres of land on St. Simon's 
Island as the location of a light-house. Also six acres were 
ceded on the northern extremity of Cumberland Island, on 
which a light-house was to be erected for the benefit of the 
town of St. Marys, which was a port at the mouth of St. 
Mary's River. Savannah chiefly, and then Brunswick, Darien, 
and St. Mary's, were the principal harbors on the Georgia 
coast, and each having a light-house afforded safe import and 
export of foreign and domestic goods. 

14. Some uncertainty had arisen concerning the exact 
boundary line separating Georgia from North Carolina, and 
had caused trouble to the inhabitants in the extreme north- 
east of the State. The governor was therefore requested by 
the legislature to appoint two or more fit persons as commis- 
sioners to meet commissioners of North Carolina in order to 
locate the true line. But North Carolina refusing to cooper- 
ate, the difficulties were not settled until some years later. 

12 



134 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1805. 

15. The commissioners appointed in 1803 to fix the site of 
Milledgeville, lay off the lots and prepare them for sale, 
accomplished their work, and it was approved by the legisla- 
ture. To promote the plan, John Rutherford, Littleberry 
Bostwick, Archibald Devereux, George M. Troup, John Her- 
bert, and Oliver Porter were appointed with authority to give 
sixty days notice in the Gazette, and to sell any number of 
lots in the new town. Of the money arising from this sale, 
a part was to be used for the erection of the capitol buildings 
for the use of the executive department, and the general 
assembly. 

16. Another Indian treaty for the cession of lands was 
made by the United States in 1805. Henry Dearborn, sec- 
retary of war, met six chiefs at Washington City, November 
1805, and bargained with them for the cession of the remain- 
ing lands lying between the Ocmulgee and Oconee Rivers, to 
the mouth of the Alcovy rivers at the corner of Newton and 
Jasper counties. The treaty also provided that the United 
States might build forts and other fortification, factories, and 
trading houses among the Indians. A horse path was also to 
be kept open through the Creek country for the convenience 
of travelers. In consideration of all this the United States 
suitably recompensed the Indians with large sums of money. 

17. Among those who signed this treaty was the celebrated 
Gen. William Mcintosh. He was a half-breed of the Mus- 
cogee or Creek nation. His father was a Scotchman, and his 
mother a native Indian of pure unmixed blood. He was 
born at Coweta, and reared among his Indian kindred. In 
person he was tall, well-formed, and of dignified bearing. He 
was intellectual and brave, partaking of the intellect of his 
father and the war-loving spirit of his mother. He will come 
prominently into our notice later on in the war of 181 2. 

18. The treaty was duly ratified in 1806, when the legisla- 
ture annexed the newly acquired lands to the counties of 



[ 1 8o6. ] AD MINIS TRA TION OF IR WIN. \ 35 

Baldwin and Wilkinson, and distributed them by the Land- 
Lottery System. 

19. Abraham Baldwin and James Jackson were at this time, 
1806, United States Senators. But in March Jackson died 
in Washington City, lamented by all the people of Georgia. 
He was first buried four miles from Washington City, and 
afterwards by a resolution of Congress his remains were taken 
up and deposited in the congressional burying ground. On 
his tomb is the following inscription: "To the memory of 
Major-General James Jackson, of Georgia, who deserved and 
enjoyed the confidence of a grateful country — a soldier of the 
Revolution." He was devoted to Georgia, honorable and 
noble in all his actions, a man whose memory is worthy of 
cherished remembrance. A while before his death he said, 
that if after his death his heart could be opened, Georgia 
would be legibly read there. 

20. John Milledge, then governor, was elected to the 
United States Senate, to fill the vacancy made by Jackson's 
death, and thereupon resigned his office as governor. Jared 
Irwin being president of the Senate, succeeded him under the 
provisions of the State constitution, and when the legislature 
met he was elected governor by them. 




136 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [iSo6. 




CHAPTER XXVI. 

1806—1808. 

Crawford and Milledge Senators.— Yazoo Resolutions.— Death of Telfair.— 
Trouble with North Carolina.— Legislature Meets at Milledgeville.— 
Military Measures. — Legislature Against Liquor. — Darien. — Madison 
Elected President of United States. 

ARED IRWIN, elected governor by the legislature 
in November, 1806, held the high office the second 
time. He had been an excellent presiding officer in 
the State senate and constitutional convention of 
1798. He was president of the Senate from 1790 to 
1 818, with intervals in which he filled other stations. He 
was governor first in 1796, and signed the Rescinding Bill 
which removed the odium of the Yazoo Act from the statute 
books. 

2. In 1807, William H. Crawford was elected United States 
Senator, and took his seat beside Senator John Milledge. The 
Georgia Representatives in Congress, were William Bibb, 
Howell Cobb, Dennis Smelt, and George M. Troup. William 
H. Crawford was a Virginian by birth, but had for many years 
practiced law in Lexington, Georgia. At an early period of 
his life, he was regarded as one of the intellectual men of his 
times, and on his entering pohtical fife he soon ranked among 
the great statesmen. He enjoyed the confidence of Jeffer- 
son while he was President, and afterward was an intimate 
adviser of Madison. His great abilities made him Secretary 
of the Treasury, and also Secretary of War. He distin- 
guished himself as United States Minister to France by win- 
ning the marked notice of Napoleon Bonaparte. In after 
years, he became a candidate for President of the United 
States as we shall see further on in this history. 



i8o7.] ADMINISTRATION OF IRWIN. 137 

3. During this year, 1807, the Yazoo question was again 
agitated in Congress, and on that account the Georgia legis- 
lature took occasion to express its abhorrence of the Act 
and of its originators. A resolution was passed, known as the 
Yazoo resolution, which declared that Georgia viewed with 
abhorrence the attempt once made to corrupt the legisla- 
ture in 1783, and rejoiced that it was rendered abortive by 
the honesty of the people. The resolution expressed the 
strong desire that Congress should not acknowledge the 
claims of the Yazoo speculators, and thanked John Ran- 
dolph, of Virginia, for his bold opposition to the demands 
of the Yazoo Company. 

4. Edward Telfair died, September 7, 1807, at Savannah, 
in the seventy-second year of his age. He was of Scotch 
birth, and came to America when twenty-three years old. 
He had been twice governor of Georgia, and performed his 
duties with distinction. When Washington visited Georgia, 
he was brilliandy entertained by Governor Telfair in his 
home, near Augusta, called ''The Grove." The old revo- 
lutionary heroes were one by one passing away. 

5. The boundary line between North Carolina and Georgia 
continued to be an unsetded cause of trouble. In 1806, a 
commission had been appointed by the Georgia legislature 
to locate the thirty-fifth degree of north latitude, and to run 
the dividing hne between the two States. North Carolina 
also appointed a commission for the same purpose. The 
two commissions differed so much in observations taken at 
the same time and place, that doubts arose either as to their 
honesty or the accuracy of their instruments. 

6. In 1807, a new effort was made with three other com- 
missioners from Georgia, accompanied by two expert sur- 
veyors and the surveyor-general. The best instruments were 
procured and three thousand dollars was appropriated to 
defray expenses. North Carolina declined to assist in this 
survey, and Georgia proceeded to estabHsh the line alone. 



138 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1807. 

But the difficulty remained unsettled, until by act of Con- 
gress, United States Commissioners were appointed, and the 
boundary line marked out by Ellicott of Georgia. 

7. The legislature held its session of 1807, in the new 
capitol building, at Milledgeville, for the first time. In 
1805, the contract was made for the erection of the build- 
ing, and it was now nearly done. The house was built of 
brick, and cost sixty thousand dollars. It was a spacious 
building, and, for that period, considered elegant. It con- 
tained ample rooms for the legislature, with numerous con- 
venient offices for all departments of government. The 
location was on a commanding hill, near the center of a 
spacious park. Here the State government held its capitol 
for over a half century. 

8. Milledgeville was still a small town. Not a hundred 
lots had been sold, and only a part of them had been paid 
for. But in after years the town grew, prospered, and was 
chartered as a city in 1836. The county in which Milledge- 
ville is located is called Baldwin, in honor of Senator 
Baldwin, who died at this period, March 1807, in Wash- 
ington City, while in discharge of his duties. 

9. During this session of the legislature, several new coun- 
ties were made from the great tracts acquired from the Indians. 
These counties were Morgan, Jones, Putnam, Laurens, and 
Telfair — all named in honor of patriotic men worthy of this 
distinction. These new counties, with Greene added, were 
united in a new judicial circuit, called the Ocmulgee, which 
was the fourth judicial circuit in Georgia. 

10. The militia laws of the State needed revision, and 
this legislature undertook to revise them. The legislature, 
accordingly, divided the State into four militia divisions, and 
these were divided into eight brigades. The subdivisions 
continued into regiments, b^ittalions, and companies. The 
numbers to be enrolled in these several bodies was pre- 
scribed, and the times and places of musters, drills, and other 



i8o8.] ADMINISTRATION OF IRWIN. 139 

military duties were appointed. The governor was made 
commander-in-chief. The miUtia laws were designed to or- 
ganize all the arms-bearing men in bodies available for the 
defense of the State. 

11. The legislature of 1808, also directed the establishing, 
within the State, a number of "Military Institutes," in the 
nature of Schools for the instruction of all militia officers who 
would attend them. These institutes were to be located at 
convenient points within the divisions, and were to be under 
the superintendance of the adjutant-general. It was designed 
to have taught in these schools the general principles of 
military science, and also the practical duties of officers and 
soldiers. They were to be held from one to two weeks 
only in each year. 

12. The immediate effect of this militia system was the 
enrolling of twenty-four thousand effective men who were 
armed, drilled, and made ready to respond to the call to 
arms at a day's notice. The measures were also well timed, 
for within a few years afterward the war with Great Britain 
and conflict with the Indians found Georgia prepared, and 
proved the wisdom of the precept, that in time of peace the 
nation should prepare for war. 

13. The initial steps in legislation looking toward the pro- 
hibition of the sale of spirituous liquors were taken by the 
legislature of 1808. The act then passed made it unlawful 
to sell intoxicating liquors within one mile of any "meeting- 
house" or other place of pubHc worship during the time 
appropriated to such worship, under the penatly of thirty 
dollars. This is the first attempt at the restriction of this 
traffic. 

11-. David Emanuel died in 1808 at the age of sixty-four 
years. He is described as a handsome and amiable man, 
possessing good judgment in pubHc affairs, and of inflexible 
integrity. He had been president of the State senate and 
governor of Georgia. 



140 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1808. 

15. Darien was a thriving Scotch town^ situated at the 
mouth of the Altamaha River. It had a great trade in pine 
lumber, which was its chief export. The importance of the 
place caused a cession to be made by Georgia to the United 
States in 1808, of five acres, on Sapelo Island, for the foun- 
dation of a light-house opposite Darien harbor. 

16. James Madison was elected President and George 
Clinton Vice-President at the presidential election of Novem- 
ber, 1808. By operation of law the African slave trade 
ceased this year to be lawful. It was at no time either fa- 
vored or profitable in Georgia. 




1809.1 ADMINISTRATION OF MITCHELL. 141 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

1809—1811. 

Mitchell Elected Governor.— " Agricultural Society."— Factories.— First 
Banks.— Education.— Internal Improvements.— Condition of State. 

'^AVIDB. MITCHELL was elected by the legislature 




'^^ November 9, 1809, to succeed Jared Irwin in the of- 
fice of governor. He was born in Scotland in 1766, 
and came to Georgia in 1783, to take possession of lands 
left him by his uncle. He studied law, and in 1795 was 
made solicitor-general of the State. In 1804 he was elected 
major-general of the first division of Georgia militia. 

2. His able message made important suggestions concern- 
ing improvement of the public roads, navigation of rivers, 
and management of the State's finances. 

3. In response to the message an act was passed to clear 
the Savannah River for boats, and forbidding obstructions 
to be placed in its stream. The steamboat had not yet been 
invented, and very little navigation was attempted beyond 
the rowboat and rafts of timber and lumber. 

4. This legislation for the improvement of the State was 
followed by the act of 18 10, incorporating "The Agricultural 
Society of Georgia." The society was formed to collect 
valuable information on agriculture, to suggest improvements, 
and to encourage thrifty, intelligent farming. These and like 
efforts indicated the early spirit of the State in respect to the 
development of its resources. 

5. Few factories of any sort yet existed. The general at- 
tention had been directed to agriculture, the lumber trade, 
cattle raising, and the like. But in this year, 1810, a factory 



142 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1810. 

was begun by the Wilkes Manufacturing Company, with a 
capital of ten thousand dollars. About the same time another 
was put in operation, on Little River, in Morgan County. 
But neither seem to have prospered, and were soon aban- 
doned. 

6. The first bank in Georgia was incorporated in 18 10, and 
called the Bank of Augusta. It was chartered for twenty 
years, with a capital stock of three hundred thousand dollars, 
divided into shares of one hundred dollars each. The State 
was authorized by the act to take fifty thousand dollars of 
these shares, with power to appoint two of the thirteen di- 
rectors. The bank was empowered to issue bills and con- 
tract obligations to three times the amount of the capital. 
The dividends were to be paid semi-annually, and on the dis- 
solution of the company the capital stock was to be divided 
among the stockholders. 

7. At the same session, ten days later, the Planter's Bank 
was incorporated with similar powers. 

8. Education had also engaged attention from the earhest 
times, and at this time new interest was awakened. Mount 
Zion Academy and Powellton Academy were both established 
in 181 1, and became famous institutions. State aid to edu- 
cation was already freely offered. Schools began to appear 
in all the settlements, and the academies grew in number. 
By the act of 1792 every academy had the right to appropriate 
for its own use one thousand dollars worth of the "confis- 
cated lands." In 181 1 and 181 2, there was still further 
encouragement given by the incorporation of academies in 
various counties with grants of aid. Thus the legislatures 
began to place education within the reach of all the children 
of the State. 

9. The message of Governor Mitchell in 1809, on improve- 
ment of rivers and roads continued to influence legislation 
from year to year. Measures were taken to open Broad, 
Oconee, and Ogeechee Rivers at once, so that those streams 



i8ii.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF MITCHEIL. 



143 



became navigable by small boats and rafts. The steam engine 
was wholly unknown in Georgia. The only means of travel 
was by the piibhc roads and rivers, and, therefore, they were 
objects of great attention. Several new roads were made in 
1811, connecting important points, and drawing population 
along their courses to fill up and improve the State. 

10. The population of the State, white and colored, had 
now reached two hundred and fifty-three thousand four hun- 
dred and thirty-three. The exports amounted to two and a 
half million dollars, having increased nearly a million during 
ten years. The area of cultivated lands was also consider- 
ably widened. Savannah was still the largest city, having a 
population a few over five thousand. It was the principal 
harbor for exports, although considerable shipping was done 
by Brunswick, Dexter, and St. Mary's. Augusta was still a 
small town, having a good trade and gradual growth. 




snipping scene. 



144 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1807. 




CHAPTER XXVIII. 

1813. 

Beginning of War of 1812. — Attack on Chesapeake. — Embargo. — Georgia 
Representation. — Legislative Action. — British Vessel at Savannah. — 
"President" and "Little Belt."— Indian Depredations.— Tecumseh.— 
Action ot Georgia Legislature. 

NGLAND and France being at war, the United 
States sought to preserve a strict neutrality, but were 
not allowed by either of these great antagonists the 
rights of a neutral power. Both France and England issued 
orders restricting American commerce, and threatening the 
capture of American vessels. The United States resented 
this insult, and unjust interference, and sent protests to both 
governments. The British, however, answered that American 
vessels would still be searched, and sailors impressed into the 
British service if found in the high seas. So arrogant had 
the British become, that in June, 1807, the British man-of- 
war Leopard fired on the vessel Chesapeake as it was leaving 
harbor for a distant port. Three men were killed, eighteen 
were wounded, and four others seized, when the Chesapeake 
surrendered. This outrage fairly aroused the spirit of war 
in the United States. 

2. In December, 1807, Congress laid an embargo on all 
American vessels, by which they were prevented from leav- 
ing their ports to trade with foreign nations. This was an 
effective blow at Great Britain, but on account of the dissat- 
isfaction it produced at home, it was repealed soon after. 

3. The representatives of Georgia in Congress were W. W. 
Bibb, Howell Cobb, Dennis Smelt, and George M. Troup. 
Their speeches and votes indicated the public sentiment over 



WAR OF 1812. 145 



the State. Georgia was among the foremost to resist these 
British aggressions. 

4. December 20, 1808, the legislature sent an address to 
the President of the United States, approving the vigorous 
measures he had taken. The address declared the people of 
Georgia "strong in their independence and proud of their 
government," and "that they will never wish to see the 
lives and property of their brethren exposed to the insult and 
rapacity of a foreign power." If the war should come, " they 
will in proportion to their number and resources give zealous 
aid to the government of their choice." 

5. Great Britain determined to force a cotton trade with 
Georgia and South Carolina, and fitted out a number of ves- 
sels of fifteen or twenty guns, to open their ports. In Janu- 
ary, 1809, one of these vessels, the war brig Sandwich, arrived at 
Savannah, and anchored at Tybee Island. Two of its offi- 
cers came up to Savannah, but upon stating their object were 
peremptorily ordered away. Reluctantly they returned to 
their vessel and put to sea. Before leaving the bar they fired 
several shots at a pilot boat lying in the harbor, and committed 
other outrages. They also threatened the town with their 
vengeance. This act and others of a similar nature provoked 
the legislature of Georgia to draw up resolutions to the Pres- 
ident of the United States, stating that ' ' with an eye of pru- 
dent suspicion they had marked the rapid strides of the Brit- 
ish government toward the despotism of the ocean. That all 
hopes of a peaceful termination of the difficulty had been 
lost, and the duty of the United States was to maintain their 
sovereign rights against the despots of Europe. That the 
citizens of Georgia will ever be found in readiness to assert the 
rights and support the dignity of the country, whenever called 
upon by the general government." 

6. James Madison, the fourth President of the United 

States, was inaugurated March 4, 1809. By act of Congress 

all trade between the United States and Great Britain and 

13 



146 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGTA. [1811. 

France was prohibited. This measure was followed by 
another naval affair which still more inflamed the mind of 
the people. May 16, 181 1, the United States frigate Presi- 
dent, and the British sloop Little Belt had an engagement. 
In this the Little Belt suffered severely, the vessel being dis- 
abled and thirty-two British were killed. The United States 
made proper reparation for the affair, though the Little Belt 
was at fault. This was one of the many signs that the war was 
coming rapidly. 

7. While the war with Great Britain was threatening, the 
Indians committed several hostile acts in the North-west, and 
this being attributed to the instigation of the British agents, 
still more incensed the public mind. The principal leaders 
of the hostile Indians were Tecumseh and his brother called 
the Prophet. These Indians gave much trouble to the States 
during the progress of the war and kept the frontier in con- 
tinual agitation. 

8. To prepare for the war the regular army of the United 
States was raised to thirty-five thousand men, and a call was 
made for fifty thousand volunteers. The navy was improved, 
and general preparations made. 

9. The population was only about seven millions. The re- 
sources of the States were limited, their national greatness 
was yet unacknowledged by Europe, but the spirit of the 
country was such that success in the approaching war was 
assured. 

10. The Georgia legislature again passed patriotic resolu- 
tions declaring that our rights had been outraged beyond the 
remedy of negotiation, and if an appeal to arms was neces- 
sary, then under the favor of heaven with one consent and 
with proud alacrity, the people would fly to the support of the 
government of their choice and to defend and preserve their 
beloved country. 



i8i2.] IVAJ? OF 1812. 147 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

1812. 

Declaration of War.— State Military Preparations.— Troubles with Flor- 
ida. — Defense of Sea-coast. — Expedition against Seminoles. — Progress 
of the War.— William H. Crawford, Vice-President.— Death of Mat- 
thew^s. — " Alleviating Law^." 

slWl'l^ way to settle the dispute appearing, President 
}| Madison recommended to Congress a declaration 
'^ of war. Accordingly June i8, 1812, the declara- 
tion of war against England was made, and the second 
war for independence was begun. 

' 2. Soon after, Governor Mitchell sent a message to 

the legislature calling on them to maintain the government, 
and to engage with spirit in the war with England. He ad- 
vised them to pay particular care to the defense of the sea- 
coast, whose numerous inlets and excellent harbors would 
invite the attention and excite the cupidity of British cruis- 
ers. From the mouth of the St. Mary's northward, and up 
the Savannah River was a long stretch of exposed frontier 
which the governor declared needed protection. "To do 
this the citizens must have arms, and be taught the use 
of them as well as the duties of the camp." He urged the 
necessity of revising the miHtary laws, of arming and dis- 
ciplining the military company, and making other prepara- 
tions for the protection of Georgia. In response to this call 
the legislature appropriated thirty thousand dollars as a mili- 
tary fund, to be used in equipping troops, building forts, arm- 
ing vessels, and protecting the eastern and western frontier. 
The arms which remained at the old arsenal at Louisville 
were removed to Milledgeville, and distributed among vari- 



148 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1812. 

ous military companies. The cavalry of the State received 
an ample supply of swords and pistols. 

3. In 181 2, Governor Mitchell was instructed by the 
President of the United States to act for the general govern- 
ment in settling some difficulty arising in East Florida. The 
troubles had provoked a memorial from the Georgia legis- 
lature to Congress, stating that the Spanish in Florida had 
made numerous and multiplied aggressions upon the Georgia 
soil, and had taken forcible possession of certain territory 
near Mobile. Complaint was made that Spain had allied 
with Great Britain, and was instigating the southern Indians 
to a frontier war. The memorial requested Congress to au- 
thorize the President of the United States to take possession 
of East Florida, and of that part of West Florida which was 
purchased from France but still occupied by Spain. The 
port of Ameha, in East Florida, had become a rendezvous 
for smugglers who aided Great Britain in the war, and there 
was danger of all Florida being occupied by the British, 
Spanish, and Indians. If an advance was made on Georgia 
it would destroy the whole trade of the Western States. The 
memorial also stated that the sovereignty of the State has 
been invaded by Indian murders in Georgia from East Flor- 
ida, and that a general invitation had been made to tlie blacks 
to fly to the Fort of St. Augustine where they would be re- 
ceived. 

4. This spirited document engaged the immediate atten- 
tion of the President, and by his orders Governor Mitch- 
ell hastily summoned the Georgia troops to act in junction 
with those of the United States to enter East Florida. He 
was instructed, if possible, to procure the annexation of East 
Florida to the United States, and then forever end the diffi- 
culties from that quarter. When he reached St. Mary's a 
correspondence ensued between Governor Mitchell and the 
acting governor of East Florida, and the proposals of the 
United States were made known. But these overtures were 



i8i2.] . ^A/^ OF 1812, 149 

rejected by the Spaniards, and the correspondence stopped. 
The British and Spaniards next made an attempt to drive the 
American troops from Florida, but without success. A battle 
was fought, but the patriots stood their ground, and the dis- 
comfited enemy retired into their works May i6, 1812. The 
United States forces, with the Georgia troops, were equally 
unable to dispossess the British and Spaniards. Colonel 
Smith was therefore left by Governor Mitchell to remain in 
East Florida with the troops. 

5. The critical situation of the eastern frontier of Georgia 
provoked the earnest consideration of the legislature. The 
exposure of the coast was a source of much apprehension. 
Major-General Thomas Pinckney was requested to post 
troops along the coast to prevent the British cruisers from 
landing, and check any invasion from Florida. Governor 
Mitchell was also authorized to call on General Pinckney 
for ten thousand men, to contract for five hundred stand of 
arms, and to furnish militia troops to the exposed countries. 
Two companies of infantry were stationed in each of the 
counties of Chatham, Bryan, Camden, and all those border- 
ing on the coast and adjoining Florida. The citizens of this 
section were not called upon to serve elsewhere. Life and 
property were much exposed, and the situation particularly 
calamitous. 

6. Instigated by the Spanish and British, the Seminole In- 
dians in Florida began hostilities, and committed depreda- 
tions demanding instant action on the part of Georgia. To 
quell this incipient invasion, and divert the horrors of an In- 
dian war, an expedition against the Seminoles was conducted 
by Adjutant-General Newman. Volunteers were called for, 
and many responded. For seven days they remained in the 
heart of the Seminele country, continually surrounded by 
savage foes, and enduring great hardships. Several engage- 
ments occurred, in which the brave volunteers succeeded in 
bringing the hostile Indians to peace. The legislature passed 



150 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1812. 

a resolution commending their valor and endurance, and 
thanking them for the service they had rendered the State. 

7. In consequence of the action of Spain and Portugal in 
supporting England in the war with America, the people of 
Georgia sent a protest to Congress against commerce with 
those two countries as well as with England. The remon- 
strance charged that this trade was detrimental to the coun- 
try; prolonged the war, and was only in the interest of 
"avaricious" speculators who are ever "ready to erect their 
fortunes upon the ruins of their country." 

8. The war was prosecuted with vigor by both parties, 
American and British. The United States invaded Canada, 
but suffered a series of discouraging reverses. At Detroit, 
General Hill, in command of two thousand five hundred men, 
surrendered to General Brocke the British commander, and 
opened the way to the invasion of Michigan. At Fort Dear- 
born and Niagara Falls the Americans suffered other severe 
defeats. But the losses on land were compensated by brill- 
iant naval victories. Contrary to expectation, the American 
navy was gallantly defending the coast, and repulsing the 
British in many engagements. Five ships-of-war had been 
captured at various points, and every-where the naval plans 
of the British were defeated. The American privateers also 
captured about five hundred British merchantmen, and took 
three thousand prisoners. A gallant work for the small navy 
of the United States. 

9. William H. Crawford, when senator from Georgia, was 
elected to fill the vacancy in the office of Vice-President of 
the United States, caused by the death of George Clinton 
April 20, 181 2. Mr. Crawford was one of the most remark- 
able men of his time, and showed himself a great and pa- 
triotic statesman. He filled the position until November of 
the same year, when James Madison was re-elected Presi- 
dent and Eldridge Gerry, of Massachusetts, was chosen Vice- 
President. 



i8i2.] IVAjR of 181-2. 151 

10. August 30, 181 2, Governor George Matthews died at 
Augusta, Georgia, on his way to Washington City. His re- 
mains were placed in St. Paul's church-yard, where his grave- 
stone can still be seen. He was not a learned man, but 
possessed great energy, and won distinction by hard work. 

11. The legislature of 181 2 passed what is generally 
known as the Alleviating Law. This law originated in the 
prevailing financial distress, and was intended to relieve 
those who unfortunately had become entangled in debt. 
The law was designed to protect the honest debtor. It pro- 
vided that where debtors were about to squander their prop- 
erty, suit could be brought, or if they were about to run 
away their property could be attached and sold. 




152 ST UDEN T ' S HIS TOR V OF G E OR GIA. [ 1 8 1 3 . 



CHAPTER XXX. 

1813. 

Campaign of 1813.— Erection of Forts on Southern Frontier.— Surprise of 
Fort Mims. — Expedition Against the Creeks. — Burning of Autosse and 
Tallasee.— Perry's Victory of Lake Erie. 

fHE war still continued. The operations for 18 13, were 
along the northern frontier of the United States. The 
American army had been divided into three forces. 
The Army of the North was placed on the shore of 
""^ Lake Champlain, and under command of General 
Wade Hampton; the Army of the Center was stationed at 
Niagara, under command of General Dearborn; the Army 
of the West was at the head of Lake Erie, under command 
of General Harrison. These three points being strongly 
guarded, the Americans hoped for success, and a speedy 
termination of the war. 

2. The Indians on the southern frontier, continually in- 
stigated by the British and the Spanish, began to exhibit 
hostile intentions. Governor Mitchell deemed it advisable 
to erect forts on the frontier, and ordered General Black- 
shear and Lieutenant-Colonel Wimberly to construct fortifi- 
cations in Twiggs, Telfair, and Pulaski counties. The in- 
habitants of these counties were in a high state of alarm, 
and an immense number had fled to the interior, abandon- 
ing their homes and farms. The forts were erected ten 
miles distant from each other, one hundred feet square, con- 
taining two block houses, and inclosed with a stockade eight 
feet high. Three forts were erected in Twiggs, three in 
Telfair, and four in Pulaski County. One sergeant and six- 
teen men were placed in each, and every ten days they 



i8i3.] ^^^ OF 1S12. 153 

were relieved. This plan was deemed sufficient for the time 
to secure the inhabitants from the Indians. 

3. The expected attack was not long delayed. August 
30, 1 813, a large body of Creek Indians, seven hundred and 
twenty-five in number, surprised Fort Mims, on the Chat- 
tahoochee River, at twelve o'clock in the day, and massa- 
cred nearly three hundred men, women, and children in the 
most savage and cruel manner. This outrage created great 
consternation on the frontier, and many families left their 
homes and fled to more thickly settled regions. To punish 
the offenders the general government ordered out the militia 
of Georgia and Tennessee. Three thousand six hundred 
Georgia troops were ordered to rendezvous at Camp Hope, 
near Fort Hawkins, on the Ocmulgee River, not far from 
the city of Milledgeville. This command, the flower of the 
trained militia, was given to General Stewart, of Oglethorpe 
County, the ranking brigadier-general in the State. But his 
age rendered active service impossible, and General John 
Floyd was placed in command. But having no supplies and 
no means of getting any the dauntless general applied to the 
legislature, then in session, for a loan of twenty thousand 
dollars from the State treasury, and his application being 
granted, he was enabled to equip his army and get ready 
to march into the Creek country. 

4. His first measure was to construct a line of forts and 
block houses from the Ocmulgee to the Alabama River, com- 
pletely protecting the northern part of the State from south- 
ern invasion. On the banks of the Chattahoochee River, 
he built Fort Mitchell, and garrisoned it. Leaving the main 
body of his army, he took nine hundred and fifty men, and 
hastened by night marches to Autosse, one of the largest 
towns of the Creek nation, on the left bank of the Talla- 
poosa River, and near the Indian town Tallasee. The dis- 
tance was sixty miles, and the enemy were one thousand 
five hundred strong. The celebrated Indian chief, William 



154 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1813. 

Mcintosh, who was friendly to the whites, accompanied this 
expedition with four hundred friendly Indians. The towns 
were attacked just before daybreak, November 29, 1813, a 
simultaneous assault being made upon Autosse and Tallasee. 
By nine o'clock the enemy were driven from both towns 
and their houses in flames, two hundred Indians with the 
kings of both towns were killed. The king of Tallasee, an 
old chief, was slain, and his pipe, which had been smoked 
at a treaty forty years before, was taken and presented to 
the governor, by whom it was deposited in the executive 
office at Milledgeville. Four hundred houses were burned 
with all the provisions and stock. Only eleven whites were 
killed, and fifty-four wounded. Among the latter was Gen- 
eral Floyd himself, who received a ball in the knee. Though 
wounded early in the fight, he remained on horseback re- 
fusing to have the wound dressed, and performed the duties 
of commander during the entire engagement. After the 
battle, General Floyd returned to Fort Mitchell, having 
marched one hundred and twenty miles in seven days during 
very cold weather, and on five days provisions. 

5. The Tennessee troops, under General Coffee, and the 
whole army under General Andrew Jackson, were also at 
the same time doing valiant service around Mobile and 
the neighboring country, and were severely chastening the 
Creeks. 

6. The State of Georgia always showed a true pride in the 
success of the national arms during this war. At the first 
session of the legislature, after Commodore Perry's brihiant 
victory over the enemy on Lake Erie, resolutions were passed 
expressing the State's warmest thanks. It was spoken of 
as more momentous to the United States than any since the 
surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown, and has shed a blaze of 
glory over the national flag which no time can extinguish. 



i8i3.] W^i^ OF 1812. 155 



CHAPTER XXXI. 

1813—1814. 

Early Elected Governor,— Bibb Elected Senator.— Battle of Challibee.— 
Jackson in Alabama. — Treaty at Fort Jackson. — Cession of Territory. — 
Sword Presented to Colonel Appling. — Treaty of Peace between United 
States and Great Britain. — British in Southern Georgia.— Steam Navi- 
gation. — Governor Early Vetoes the AUeviatory Bill.; 

T^lrlllT this session of the legislature, 1813, the term of 
|j Governor ]\litchell having expired, Peter Early was 
elected to fill his place. He was a Virginian by 
birth, had come to Georgia in 1796, and practiced law 
in Wilkes County. He had been in Congress and 
assisted in conducting the prosecution against Chief- 
Justice Chase, where he made great reputation by his elo- 
quence. In 1807 he was appointed Judge of the Superior 
Court of the Ocmulgee Circuit, which he retained until his 
election as governor. Governor Early was strong in will, 
energetic in action, and soon began vigorous measures for the 
continued defense of Georgia, and the prosecution of the war. 
Soon after his election an officer of the United States applied 
to him for a loan of eighty thousand dollars to continue the 
war, and pledged the faith of the general government for 
its payment. The request was granted by the patriotic gov- 
ernor, and a warrant drawn upon the treasury of the State 
for that amount. It was suggested to Governor Early that 
the States might disrupt during the war, and the money be 
lost. To this he replied that he hoped no such disruption 
would ever happen, but if it should, he had no wish that 
Georgia should survive the general wreck, a sentiment in 
which he was upheld by the people of the State. 



156 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1814. 



2. William H. Crawford having been appointed Minister 
to France, resigned his seat as United States Senator, and 
William B. Bullock of Savannah was appointed April 8, 1813, 
by the executive of Georgia, to fill the unexpired term. In 
November following, W. W. Bibb was elected to that place, 
Mr. Bullock not being a candidate. 

3. The military operations still continuing, and General 
Floyd being disabled for duty by his wound, David Black- 
shear was appointed by the governor in command. General 
Blackshear was a North Carolinean by birth, and had been a 
soldier from his earliest youth. He had lived in Georgia most 
of his life, in the neighborhood of the Indians, and was well ac- 
quainted with their habits and mode of warfare. When Gen- 
eral Floyd recovered and was able to take the field, General 
Blackshear was placed in command of another force, and Gen- 
eral Floyd given his old troops. 

4. General Floyd again advanced January 18 14 from Fort 
Mitchell against the Creeks. He had been informed that the 
Upper Creeks had collected in great numbers at Hotle Crau- 
lee, a town of some importance. He detached a force of 
one thousand five hundred men to attack this place. The 
march was much obstructed by rains and bad roads. The 
troops advanced to within fifteen or twenty miles of the town 
and encamped. Just before dayfight a large body of Indians 
attacked the camp, drove in the sentinels, and rushed impet- 
uously upon the soldiers. , They were headed by the warrior 
Weatherford, and assisted by Colonel Woodbine, an English 
officer. The Georgia troops formed themselves in the shape 
of a square with the baggage in the center. The fight lasted 
several hours, and the troops evinced the steadiest and most 
determined bravery. When daylight came a charge was 
sounded. The troops rushed forward and routed the enemy 
at the point of the bayonet. Of the Americans seventeen 
were killed and one hundred and thirty-two wounded. This 
engagement was known as the battle of Challibbee, and was 
fought at Camp Defiance, January 27, 1814. The attack was 



i8i4.] IVA/^ OF 1812. I57 



made by the British and Indians, to prevent a union between 
General Floyd's and General Jackson's troops. This batde 
made the junction unnecessary. Within a few days after this 
battle the term of service for which General Floyd's troops 
were engaged expired, and they were discharged. General 
Floyd was ordered to march with a brigade to Savannah, to 
protect that place. Here he remained until the termination 
of the war. 

5. General Jackson still continued the war in Alabama, 
and defeated the Creeks and other hostile Indians at Talle- 
dega, Emuckfau, and other points. But his crowning victory 
over them was at Horse Shoe Bend on the Tallapoosa River. 
Here the red-sticks, as the unfriendly Creeks were called, 
were completely crushed. Such reverses as these induced the 
Creeks to sue for a treaty of peace. Accordingly Big War- 
rior, a chief friendly to the whites, came to Fort Jackson and 
desired to form a treaty for his crushed and humbled nation. 
A treaty was made August 9, 18 14. All the land between 
the Chattahoochee and the Altamaha which the Creeks still 
possessed, was ceded, besides the immense tracts in Alabama 
and southern part of Georgia. This cession of territory broke 
their power forever. Tears stood in the Big Warrior's eyes as he 
saw the consequence of his people's folly. The territory thus 
acquired by Georgia was formed into the counties of Early, 
Baker, Irwin, Appling, and Ware. 

6. The county of Appling was named in honor of Colonel 
Daniel AppHng, born in Columbia County. At Sandy Creek, 
New York, he performed a magnificent achievement of 
bravery, and made his name immortal. The legislature of 
Georgia passed resolutions complimenting his bravery, and 
presenting him with a handsome sword, suitable to an officer 
of his grade. But the brave officer died before the sword 
reached him. To commemorate his services, the legislature 
ordered the sword to be hung in the executive office where it 
may still be seen, a lasting memorial of his fame. 

14 



158 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1814. 

7. The war having continued two years and a half, both 
nations began to consider term of reconcihation, and finally 
at Ghent, in Belgium, December 24, 18 14, a treaty of peace 
was made. The terms of peace, however, did not suit all the 
States of the Union. Georgia, with usual spirit, passed reso- 
lutions requesting the President of the United States to 
continue the war rather than to ratify the treaty. Such 
patriotic spirit was exhibited in but few other States of the 
Union. 

8. Just before the treaty at Ghent was concluded, the gen- 
eral government called upon Georgia for three thousand five 
hundred men, which w^ere raised and equipped. Of these 
five hundred were put under the command of General Black- 
shear, and ordered to rendezvous at Fort Hawkins. This 
order was promptly obeyed. The force was intended to 
join General Jackson near Mobile and oppose the British in 
that quarter. When the force reached Flint River, General 
Blackshear received orders to march across Georgia to Da- 
rien in Mcintosh County, and oppose the landing of the Brit- 
ish, who had appeared on the coast. The road that he 
constructed at that time is still known as " Blackshear's 
Road." 

9. Although peace had been made December 24th, at 
Ghent, yet the news had not reached the United States at 
once. Telegraphs were then unknown, and news traveled 
slowly. 

10. The British having left St. Augustine were discovered 
to be approaching the shores of Georgia. January 11, 1815, 
a party of British with nineteen barges landed on Cumberland 
Island. On the 13th they moved against Point Petre with 
one thousand five hundred men. Captain Messias with only 
one hundred men determ.ineCi to meet them and check their 
advance, if possible. The engagement took place in a defile, 
where the Americans were mostly protected. The British 



i8i4.] H^A/? OF 1812. I59 



were compelled to retreat. Little depredation was committed, 
for news of the peace soon drew away the remaining forces 
of the British. Before they left, twenty-three barges filled 
with British soldiers sailed up the St. Mary's River to burn 
the mills of Major Clark who had broken his parole. As they 
were ascending the river they were attacked by a party of 
Americans under Colonel Wm. Cone. Firing began on both 
sides, but Cone's men were protected by the palmettos, and 
suffered little harm. The barges were thus harassed for sev- 
eral miles, and many of the enemy were killed. Finding their 
course impeded by such deadly fire, they went back down 
the St. Mary's, having lost one hundred and eighty men. 
This was the last of the British depredations in Georgia, and 
the end of the war of 181 2. 

11. Samuel Howard memorialized the legislature of 18 14, 
stating that he desired to use 'a new method of transporting 
merchandise on the rivers of Georgia. He had invented a 
a method of towing ships, boats and rafts, by other boats 
impelled by steam. This was the beginning of steam nav- 
igation hi the rivers of Georgia. The legislature granted 
him and his associates the exclusive right of using the 
steam towboat or tug for twenty years. Howard was al- 
lowed three years in which to construct one machine, and 
ten years to put one in each of the large rivers. The 
subject of transportation was one of great interest at 
that time, and Howard thought he had solved all diffi- 
culties. 

12. The legislature at its next meeting passed several 
resolutions complimentary to the heroes of the late war. 
They declared that the war being over the legislature ten- 
ders thanks to the gallant late Major-General Mcintosh, to 
Brigadier-General Blackshear, and to Brigadier-General 
Floyd, for their valiant services. We have already spoken 
of the resolutions to the Lieutenant-Colonel Appling. 

13. The law for alleviating the condition of debtors 



160 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1815. 

which had been in vogue for nearly six years, received its 
death-blow in 18 14, from the veto of Governor Early. So 
popular had the law become, that when it received the veto 
of the governor, great dissatisfaction arose throughout the 
State, and when the legislature met in 181 5, Governor Early 
was not re-elected, but David B. Mitchell was again placed in 
the executive chair. 




i8i5.] ADMINISTRATION OF MITCHELL. 161 



CHAPTER XXXII. 

1815—1817. 

Mitchell Elected Governor. — Penitentiary System. — Conflict between Judges 
and Legislature.— Capture of Fort at Appalachicola.— Death of Haw- 
kins. — Comme-rce of Savannah. — Agriculture. — Alabama and Missis- 
sippi. 

^^OVERNOR MITCHELL, elected and inaugurated in 
\gj^ November 1815, entered on the work of recovering 
^^^-^ the State from the losses of the war. Great encour- 
agement was given by the legislature to education, to the 
public libraries, to the erection of hospitals and poor-houses, 
and to general public improvements. Among the legislation 
prompted by benevolence, was an act, requiring the owners 
of old and infirm slaves to support them in comfort. A 
measure of financial aid, the Bank of the State of Georgia, 
was established at Savannah, and used to relieve the State of 
its financial distress. 

2. The penal system had largely engaged attention. As 
early as 1803, six thousand dollars were appropriated to erect 
the needed houses in Milledgeville for a penitentiary, but 
the work had not been done. The buildings being now 
nearly ready, the legislature passed the Penitentiary Act to 
provide for the safe keeping, proper punishment, yet hu- 
mane treatment of the violators of its laws. A board of in- 
spectors was appointed who had constant oversight of the 
operation. The convicts were to labor according to age, 
sex and strength. Proper arrangements were made for health 
and religious advantages, and separate chambers made to di- 
vide the sexes. 

3. The penal code of the State was framed and passed 



162 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1815. 

December 19, 18 16. It was an ample and able act adapting 
all the penal laws to the new penitentiary. A section of this 
new code prohibited under severe penalties, the introduction 
of negro slaves by traders for speculation, under penalty of a 
fine of one thousand dollars and five years imprisonment in 
the penitentiary. But this section did not prohibit residents 
of the State from importing slaves for their own use. The leg- 
islatures of several of the Southern States had passed similar 
laws to check this foreign traffic in negroes. By the law of 
North Carolina it was made a felony to introduce a slave ex- 
cept by express permission of the legislature. 

4. A conflict between the judicial and legislative depart- 
ments occurred in 1815, which produced considerable excite- 
ment. By the Judiciary Act of 1799, the judges of the su- 
perior court were required to meet annually in a judge's con- 
vention, to advise each other on legal questions, and to pro- 
mote uniformity of practice. During this year four of these 
judges, John McPherson Berrien, Young Gresham, Stephen 
W. Harris, and Robert Walker, assembled at Augusta, and 
denounced the constitutionality of several legislative acts, 
which action gave great offense to the legislative and execu- 
tive departments. The four judges were severely reprimanded 
by the general assembly, and their conduct declared an as- 
sumption of illegal authority. 

5. A serious difficulty now arose with the Seminole Indians 
in the South. During the war of 181 2, many negroes ran 
away from the State and were harbored in Appalachicola in 
Florida. Colonels Nichols and Woodbine, two British offi- 
cers of infamous character, had built a fort at that place, and 
offered protection to those slaves and Indians who might 
come there. The place was soon filled with the renegade 
negroes and Indians, and was turned over to them by the 
British when the war was ended, with all its stores and am- 
munition. Thereupon such a hostile attitude was assumed 
by them that the destruction of this fort and dispersion of its 



i8i6.] ADMINISTRATION OF MITCHELL, 163 

occupants became absolutely necessary. Accordingly Major 
Mcintosh, a Creek chief friendly to the whites, put himself 
at the head of five hundred Indians and marched against the 
post to demolish it. Upon arriving at the spot they procured 
the assistance of two gunboats and two small schooners, and 
thus aided, undertook to reduce this formidable fort. On 
the second morning of the attack the Indians made a sortie 
against Mcintosh, and a dreadful conflict ensued. So close 
was the engagement that the knife and tomahawk were freely 
used. But the negroes and Indians were at last driven back 
into the fort with much loss. On the third day one of the 
gunboats succeeded in getting a favorable position, and threw 
a red-hot shell over the walls of the fort into the magazine, 
containing one hundred barrels of powder. The explosion 
was terrible, entirely demolished the fort, and was felt at 
Pensacola, a distance of sixty miles. The fort contained 
three hundred negroes and twenty Indian warriors with their 
families; of this number two hundred and seventy were killed 
and nearly all the remainder were wounded. When the post 
was entered, only three were found unhurt. In the fort were 
three thousand stand of arms, five hundred carbines, nine 
hundred pairs of pistols, five hundred swords, an immense 
quantity of clothing, and five hundred kegs of uninjured 
powder. The spoils were given to the friendly Indians. 
This capture was made June 28, 1816, and was a serious 
blow to the hostility of the Southern Indians, and checked 
the desertion among the Georgia negroes. 

6. Benjamin Hawkins, the long-tried friend of the Indians, 
died June 16, 1 816. He had continued to discharge his 
duties faithfully, though at an advanced age. He had a large 
farm and elegant home among the Indians, and hospi- 
tably entertained all who came. Under his care the South- 
ern Indians had made great progress in the arts of civiliza- 
tion. He was buried at the Old Agency, on the Flint River, 
among his Indian friends whom he had served so well. 



164 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1817. 

7. The survey at this period shows marked advance and 
improvement. The thriving port of Savannah showed a grat- 
ifying commerce. Its population was now eight thousand, 
having increased fifty per cent, in seven years. The export 
trade amounted to ten million dollars annually. Ships of all 
classes were receiving and discharging their cargoes at her 
wharves. From October 18 16, to March 181 7, three hun- 
dred and fifty two vessels arrived, and two hundred and forty- 
one sailed, making a trade of nearly six hundred vessels. 
Other towns and cities were enjoying the common prosperity. 

8. Agriculture continued to employ the minds and hands 
of the thrifty Georgians.- The cultivation of cotton was on 
the increase. Thirty-four thousand bales were exported in 
one season from Savannah. Rice, tobacco, and sugar cane, 
were also principal products. The census of the State which 
was required by the constitution to be taken every seven 
years, embraced few objects, but showed an increase of the 
State's population of nearly sixty thousand in seven years. 
The population at this time, 181 7, was one hundred and sev- 
enty-five thousand nine hundred and eighty-one whites, and 
one hundred and thirty-three thousand four hundred and 
fifty-seven blacks, making a total of three hundred and nine 
thousand, four hundred and forty. 

9. The resources which God had bestowed upon the 
Georgians were gradually developing, and producing the 
wealth, intelligence, and general prosperity, which character- 
ized the State. 

10. The fruit of Georgia's generous gift of territory, in 
1802 to the United States, began now to appear. On the 
loth of December, 181 7, the' State of Mississippi having 
been formed out of this territory, was admitted into the Union. 
Two years later, December 14, 1819, Alabama, the other 
great part of this territory was also admitted into the Union as 
a sovereign State. These two great States are the noble gift 
of Georgia, to the common Union. 



[8 1 7-] ADMINISTRATION OF RABUN. 165 



CHAPTER XXXIII. 

1817. 

Monroe Elected President of United States.— Governor Mitchell Resigns, 
Being Appointed Indian Agent. — Rabun, Acting Governor. — Meeting of 
Creeks, — Death of Early. — Rabun Elected Governor. — Improvement of 
Rivers. — War with the Seminoles. 

AMES MONROE, fifth President of the United States, 
was inaugurated, March 4, 181 7, with D, D. Tomp- 
kins, Vice-President. On the same day. Governor 
^ Mitchell resigned his office, and William Rabun, 
president of the senate, assumed the duties of the 
executive department until the meeting of the legislature. 
Mitchell had been appointed by the President of the United 
States agent for Indian affairs, and not being able to dis- 
charge the duties of both offices, resigned the governorship. 

2. To show the pacific intentions of the new agent, an 
assemblage of the Creek nation was called at Fort Hawkins 
in July, 181 7. Between fourteen and fifteen hundred came 
in answer to his call, and many more expressed their desire 
to do so, but were prevented by the inconvenience of leav- 
ing their crops at that season. The conduct of the Indians 
was marked with much propriety and decorum. The prin- 
cipal chiefs dined every day with General Mitchell, and 
devoted the afternoon in executing the business for which 
they had been called together. It was said that the agent 
gained so much influence over them, that he persuaded them 
to change one of their laws in regard to murder, making 
vengeance fall upon the murderer, and not upon his family. 
The agent also gained their consent to the cession of a piece 
of territory, which shut them out entirely from the frontier 
of Georgia, and secured the citizens from their depredations. 



166 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1817. 

3. After General Mitchell had left them an unfortunate 
affair happened. Several of the young warriors, having re- 
ceived money from the Commissioners of the United States, 
determined to spend the night in revelry. Some of the prin- 
cipals warriors became drunk, among them, was the one next 
in command to Mcintosh. This warrior became highly intoxi- 
cated and killed his own nephew. The other chiefs imme- 
diately held a council, and ordered the murderer to be 
executed, which order was obeyed one hour after the mur- 
der had been committed. The territory gained by the ces- 
sion was formed into the counties of Newton, DeKalb, Gwin- 
nett, Walton, Hall, and Habersham. August 15, 181 7, Peter 
Early, the true and firm patriot, died at his home in Greene 
County. 

4. William Rabun, who had been acting governor on the 
resignation of David B. Mitchell, was now duly elected gov- 
ernor by the legislature. His opponent, was General John 
Clarke, the son of the famous Elijah Clarke of Revolutionary 
history. Governor Rabun was born in North Carolina in 
1785, and lived most of his life in Hancock County. Here 
his popularity was great, and he frequently represented this 
county in both branches of the legislature. Upon coming to 
the senate, he was elected president, and from that position 
went into the executive chair. 

5. Having a large sum of money in the treasury the legis- 
lature resolved to use it upon internal improvements, and 
especially of river navigation. Fifteen thousand dollars were 
appropriated to improve the Oconee River; eighteen thou- 
sand dollars to improve the Ocmulgee River; five thousand 
dollars to improve the Altamaha; three thousand dollars for 
the Ogeechee; twenty thousand dollars for the Savannah, and 
five thousand dollars for the Broad River. The importance 
of opening these rivers to navigation was forcing itself into 
notice. During this year, Roger McCall came down the 
Oconee in a small flatboat, carrying five hundred bags of 
cotton, which was the first brought down that river from the 



i8i7.] ADMINISTRATION OF RABUN. 167 

interior. A fund of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars 
was appropriated for general improvements of other rivers; 
also two hundred and fifty thousand dollars was appropriated 
to support the free schools of the State, and promote the 
cause of education. 

6. During this year the war with the Seminoles in Florida 
broke out, and gave the frontier settlements much difficulty. 
The Indians committed depredations in Camden County, 
and stole several hundred head of cattle. February 24, 1817, 
a party appeared near Clark's Mills, in the St. Mary's River, 
and having wantonly murdered a woman and two children, 
burnt the dwelHng and fled. This intelligence being com- 
mitted to the executive, he immediately forwarded it to the 
War Department, and urged the necessity of a force being 
stationed on the frontier to protect the citizens and preserve 
peace. General Floyd, from Savannah, sent a sufficient 
force to keep the Indians in check until the regular troops 
arrived. 

7. Septembers, 18 17, Major-General Gaines, at Fort Mont- 
gomery, sent an order to Governor Rabun for two battalions 
of militia to assist in reducing the Seminole Indians who 
were becoming rebellious in that quarter. The Seminoles 
harbored several murderers, and refused to deliver them 
to the order of General Jackson. This induced General 
Gaines acting under the orders of General Jackson to con- 
centrate his forces at Fort Scott, and call for Georgia militia 
to assemble at Fort Hawkins. The Seminoles again refused 
to surrender the murderers, and prepared for war. Gen- 
eral Gaines was joined by six hundred Creek warriors, and 
then had a force of two thousand five hundred. The Semi- 
noles could muster two thousand warriors. General Gaines 
having proceeded to Flint River sent a friendly message 
to the Indian chief on the opposite side, which was not 
heeded. Then he sent over a small detachment of troops 
upon which the Indians fired, and the fire was returned. 
This was the commencement of hostilities. After a brisk 



168 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1817. 

engagement, the Indians were put to flight, leaving four 
of their warriors slain. The militia from Fort Hawkins 
were ordered to Fort Scott, and preparations made for an 
Indian war. 

8. November, 181 7, General Gaines detached Colonel 
Arbuckle with three hundred men to reconnoiter and ascer- 
tain the strength of the Indians in the vicinity of Fowl 
Town. A party of Indians placed themselves in a swamp, 
and fired upon the Georgians as they approached. But the 
fire being returned they were forced to fly, leaving eight 
killed. November 30, 181 7, near Appalachicola upon the 
Flint River, an ambush of one thousand two hundred savages 
was formed, and a passing boat was attacked, having on board 
a detachment of United States troops with provisions and sup- 
plies. But so well was the boat defended that the men suffered 
no harm. At the same time another boat coming down to 
the assistance of the troops was ambushed, and nearly every 
man slain or taken prisoner. 

9. General Gaines concentrated his forces at Fort Scott, 
hastened the troops from Fort Hawkins, under Brigadier- 
General Glascock, and proceeded with the war against the 
Indians. Skirmishes were frequent, generally unfavorable 
to the Indians, but, on one occasion, they penetrated as 
far as Fort Scott, and murdered several persons in the 
vicinity. It was expected that they would try to reduce 
Fort Gaines and Fort Scott. But General Jackson, with a 
body of one thousand brave troops, arrived early in 181 8, 
at Fort Scott, drove back the Indians, and took immediate 
measures toward reducing St. Mark's and Pensacola, which 
two posts soon surrendered, and the Indians driven away. 
This terminated the war. The Georgia troops arrived at 
Fort Scott, but soon after their term of service expired, and 
they were prevented from doing much active service. 



i8i8.] ADMINISTRATION OF RABUN. 169 



CHAPTER XXXIV. 

1818—1819. 

Boundary Between Georgia and Tennessee.— Creek and Cherokee Meet- 
ings.— Steam Packet " Savannah."— President Monroe in Georgia.— 
Florida Ceded to the United States.— Treaty with Cherokees.— Attempt 
to Evade Slave Laws. — Death of Governor Rabun. — Talbot, acting Gov- 
ernor. — William H. Crawford.— John Clarke Elected Governor. 

^i|^|pN 1818, Governor Rabun appointed commissioners 

|- on the part of Georgia to meet those of Tennessee, 

yf^ and arrange the boundary h'ne betvveen those two 

States. The commissioners met at Nickajack Creek, 

near the North Georgia Hne, and after several weeks 

of laborious work defined the line to the satisfaction of 

all parties. During the same year, the Hon. Wilson 

Lumpkin was appointed by the general government to run 

the southern boundary line between Georgia and East Florida. 

2. November 17, 181 8, a great Creek Indian meeting was 
held at Fort Hawkins to receive the usual Indian stipend 
from the government. About four thousand Indians were 
present. Many persons from various parts of the State col- 
lected to witness the assemblage. Their general appearance 
was much improved, most of them being well clothed, neat, 
and healthy. They reported that they had plenty to eat, 
and seemed comfortable and happy. The entire population 
of the Creek nation in i8io was more than twenty thousand. 
In 1 81 8 it was reduced to about ten thousand. Another 
meeting was held with the Cherokees about the same time. 
All the chiefs headed by Path Killer met the governor of 
Tennessee as agent of the United States to make definite ar- 
rangements about the removal of the Cherokees beyond the 

Mississippi. This was the wish of a large part of them in 

15 



170 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1819. 

order to have more room for hunting. Nearly half the na- 
tion, being three hundred 'and fifty-six families, enrolled 
themselves for emigration. The lands that they were en- 
titled to in Georgia were^to be given in exchange for lands 
west of the Mississippi. 

3. The first steam packet in America for passage across 
the ocean was made by Georgia enterprise. This important 
undertaking was begun in Savannah, by a company which 
was formed in 18 18. The Georgia Company contracted to 




First Steamship. 

have the ship built in New York, and named it Savamiah. 
In April, 1819, the vessel was completed, and brought to 
Savannah, where it excited much curiosity. It left the port 
in May, bound for Liverpool, England. This was the first 
voyage across the Atlantic ever attempted by a steamship. 
The voyage was successful, the vessel going to St. Petersburg, 
in Russia, and returning to Savannah in fifty days. Captain 
Rogers was commander, and reported ''neither a screw, 
bolt, nor rope parted," although he had experienced rough 
weather. 

4. In May, 18 19, James Monroe, the President of the 
United States, visited Savannah, in company with Mr. Cal- 
houn, Secretary of War, General Gaines, and others. He 
also extended his visit, and was received with hearty wel- 
come in several places in the State. 

5. During the early part of 18 19, the territory of Florida, 
including all claims of the Spanish east of the Mississippi 




X'^ Fort Early 

V < 

\Fort Gaines ) [ Indian eliuiii extlnaruislieil 

( / j by treaty, at Fort Jackson 



Fort Scott 



Fort Gadsdjii 

FLO 




/wayne'i P^/L 
Brunsvvicj<^=J"c3;/// 

CAMDEN 



R 




D'*" A 



Longitude Wesf from 'Washincrton 



Ceo.F.Cmm Eikj.C 



i8i9.] ADMINISTRATION OF RABUN. 171 

was ceded to the United States. Five million dollars, aris- 
ing from the sale of Florida lands, was paid to the Spanish 
government. The Spanish citizens were to enjoy full priv- 
ileges and rights of citizenship in St. Augustine and Pensa- 
cola for a term of twelve years. This fortunate cession re- 
moved a troublesome neighbor from the southern frontier 
of the State. 

6. The treaty was made between Secretary Adams of the 
United States and Don Luis de Onis from Spain. The 
papers were carried to the Spanish court by John Forsyth, 
of Georgia, who had been lately appointed minister pleni- 
potentiary to Spain. The cession gave rise to bitter feeling 
in Europe, and especially in England where the growth of 
the United States was watched with ill-concealed restlessness. 

7. February 27, 18 19, a treaty was made at Washington 
City between John C. Calhoun, the Secretary of War, and 
certain chiefs of the Cherokee nation of Indians, who were 
opposed to removing west of the Mississippi. A tract of land 
was ceded by them with many reservations and indemnities. 
Articles of peace were entered into, and definite arrange- 
ments made about extending educational and religious influ- 
ence among the people. Certain annuities were to be paid 
to the nation. This tribe furnished a good field for philan- 
thropic work at that time. They were already considerably 
advanced in civilization, most of them being herdsmen or 
farmers, with correct notions concerning rights of property. 
They had not imbibed the vices of the whites like other In- 
dians, and had abandoned many features of wild, warlike 
life. Many discreet and intelhgent white persons had settled 
among them. They had a number of schools which were 
well attended, and seemed convinced that the prosperity of 
their nation depended on a change in their manners. 

8. The land acquired by this and the previous treaty of 
181 7 was divided in part between Habersham and Hall 



172 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1819. 

Counties, and the remainder set apart to constitute Rabun 
County. 

9. An interesting event occurred this year in a bold at- 
tempt to evade the laws against the slave trade by several 
persons near Brunswick. In December, 181 7, a number of 
slaves were brought into Brunswick, but were immediately 
seized by the collector of that port. Colonel Williamson, 
as agent for the State, went to Darien and took charge of 
the captured slaves. After due notice he exposed them for 
sale on the first Tuesday in May, 181 9. When the sale was 
proceeding the deputy-marshal of that district arrested the 
slaves by virtue of a warrant at the instance of Mongule 
De Castro, who was said to be a citizen of Portugal The 
sale was stopped, and the matter referred to the governor, 
who refused to surrender the slaves, since he imagined the 
name De Castro was borrowed to mask the design of several 
citizens engaged in this traffic. The whole matter was re- 
ferred to the decision of the district court, and the governor 
was sustained in his course. 

10. Governor Rabun died October, 181 9, while in the 
discharge of his executive duties. Many resolutions express- 
ive of the public grief were passed by various assemblies. 
The new governor and other officers of State marched in 
procession to the funeral service, conducted by Rev. Jesse 
Mercer, and wore crape for sixty days. 

11. Matthew Talbot, who was president of the senate, im- 
mediately assumed the governor's duties until the legislature 
could meet and elect a successor. 

12. A warm political canvass followed the death of Rabun, 
in which the main prize was the office of governor to be 
filled by the legislature. At this time there were two dis- 
tinct political parties in Georgia. W^illiam H. Crawford was 
the acknowledged leader of one party, and General John 
Clarke of the other party. Mr. Crawford was a man of tow- 
ering intellect, and was prominent as a probable successor 



i8i9.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF TALBOT. 



173 



of Mr. Monroe as President of the United States. But 
during the poHtical canvass he was suddenly prostrated by 
severe disease while in discharge of his duties as Secretary 
of the Treasury of the United States. For years he had 
been an active partisan in Georgia, and led a powerful and 
formidable party, but his 
sickness caused his with- 
drawal from political 
life, and the leadership 
of his party was com- 
mitted to George M. 
Troup. 

13. General John 
Clarke who led the op- 
posing party, was a man 
of little education, but 
of great energy. His war 
record and devotion to 
his party made him a 
popular candidate and 
powerful opponent. Be- 
tween these two men, 
George M. Troup and 
John Clarke, a heated 
political contest arose. 




William H. Crawford. 



The intense excitement of the can- 
vass grew fierce as the election drew near. Great bitter- 
ness of party feeling prevailed, and intense eagerness was 
shown as to the result. The legislature fully participated in 
all the popular interest, and in great excitement proceeded 
to ballot for governor. Clarke was elected by a majority 
of thirteen votes. 



174 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1819. 



CHAPTER XXXV. 

1819—1821. 

Protest Against Indians Remaining in State.— Augusta Female Asylum. 
— Topographical Engineer. — Beacon Lights at Savannah. — Education. — 
Fire and Yellow Fever in Savannah. — Treaty at Indian Springs. — Trou- 
ble with Government. 

^OHN CLARKE was elected governor, and formally 
]^]^ inaugurated in November, 1819. The political feeling 
continued unabated, and his administration was 
marked by important events. 

2. At the first session of the legislature an earnest protest 
was sent to Congress against those measures and treaties of 
the government by which the Indians were allowed to remain 
in the State. By the treaty of 1802 the general government 
had promised to remove them and settle their claims. After 
seventeen years this promise was not fulfilled, and many of 
the Creeks and Cherokees still remained upon the soil of 
Georgia, and troubled the inhabitants. The protest was 
warm but patriotic, and urged the government to remove the 
Indians. But the complaint from Georgia had little effect, 
and it was not until many years afterward that the State was 
freed of its Indian inhabitants. 

3. A society in Augusta for the care of female orphans was 
incorporated November 23, 1819, as the Augusta Female 
Asylum. All the directors were ladies. Another was estab- 
lished at Sunbury for the same purpose. 

4. In order to further promote internal improvements, the 
legislature also created the office of topographical and civil 
engineer. The officer was appointed to survey the rivers 



I820.] ADMINISTRATION OF CLARKE. 175 

and tributary streams, and examine tlie obstructions to 
navigation. He was to suggest general improvements, 
and report to the legislature. Much encouragement was 
given at this session to navigation and internal improve- 
ments. 

5. In 1820 the population of Georgia numbered three hun- 
dred and forty thousand, an increase of about thirty thousand 
in three years. 

6. An act of 1820 ceded the ground on which were placed 
beacon lights: on Tybee Island, Cockspur Island, Long Island, 
and Elba Island in the Savannah River, for the convenience 
of that port. An able and interesting report on the internal 
improvement was presented to the general assembly. It fa- 
vored a thorough system of improvement of the rivers and 
opening of canals, building turnpikes, and a good common 
road system. There being no railroads at that time, it was 
necessary that the ordinary roads should be in good order, 
since all traveling was done upon them by means of wagons 
and stages. 

7. Also an enlightened and progressive report on educa- 
tion was made. It spoke of the university with praise. Dr. 
Waddell was president and conducted the school with much 
ability. There were twenty academies as legal branches of 
the university. A prevaihng desire had arisen in the State 
for more general education. Academies and schools were 
wanted every-where. On the reading of the report a com- 
mittee was appointed to prepare an educational system for 
the State. 

8. The year 1820 is memorable in Savannah as the period 
of two great calamities. In the early part of the year the 
city was nearly destroyed by a terrible fire, which broke out 
in the thickest part of the city and consumed over four hun- 
dred buildings. Not a dry goods store, drug store, hardware, 
stationary or clothing store was left. For a time many per- 



176 S TUDENT' S HISTOR V OF GEORGIA. [1820. 

sons were almost naked, being protected only by remnants 
of clothing. The loss was estimated at four million dollars. 
Later in the fall a malignant yellow fever broke out, and 
almost depopulated the city. It waged for some months, and 
the citizens suffered all kinds of distress and horror. Num- 
bers died daily, and in a few months several hundred per- 
ished. Six thousand people left the city on account of the 
sickness, and hardly one thousand four hundred were left. 
The scene was one of great distress, and excited universal 
sympathy. Yet in the winter of the same year, the spirit 
of commerce returned, and the exports of the year exceeded 
those of 1 81 9. 

9. The United States being continually urged by Georgia 
to extinguish the Indian titles to lands in the borders of the 
State, determined to hold a treaty with the Creeks. Daniel 
M. Forney, of North Carolina, and David Merriwether, of 
Georgia, were the commissioners on the part of the United 
States, and met the Creek Indians at Indian Spring, January 
8, 182 1. The treaty was made and signed by twenty-six 
chiefs in the presence of John Mcintosh, David Adams, and 
David Newman. In the articles of the agreement, it was 
specified that the United States should pay to Georgia all the 
debts due by the Creeks to the Georgians not exceeding two 
hundred and fifty thousand dollars. James S. Preston was 
appointed by the President of the United States to settle the 
claims of the Georgians against the Creek nation. Preston 
held his court in Athens and settled a large amount of these 
demands. 

10. The territory gained by the treaty at Indian Springs, 
included much of the land between the Flint and Ocmulgee 
Rivers. Out of this land the counties of Monroe, Bibb, 
Crawford, Dooly, Houston, Fayette, Pike, and Henry were 
formed. After this new cession of farther territory by the 
Indians, Governor Clarke, in April 182 1, convened the gen- 
eral assembly, and advised them to distribute the lands by 



i82i.] ADMINISTRATION OF CIARKE. 177 

the lottery system, that being calculated to * * do equal justice 
to the poor and rich, and to insure a speedy population of 
the country." The citizens of the State grew more anxious 
every year for the entire removal of. the Indians and com- 
plained loudly of the neglect of the general government. 
The subject became an exciting one. The governor in his 
annual message said, ' ' until we stand upon the whole of the 
territory which we own and carry our settlements to our 
ultimate limits, any general and prominent system of public 
improvement will be attended with difficulties and unmeasur- 
ably retarded." 

11, The general government was slow in fulfilling the 
promise made by the treaty of 1802, viz: that the Indians 
should be removed as soon as it could be done peaceably 
and on reasonable terms. The delay made the people of 
Georgia impatient, and many serious private quarrels oc- 
curred. The various conflicting claims gave rise to much 
legislation and litigation. The treaties with the Cherokees 
at Cherokee Agency, July 8, 181 7, and the one by John 
C. Calhoun, at Washington, February 27, 18 19, gave re- 
serves of land to certain Indians and descendants of In- 
dian famiHes. These parties in many cases took possession 
of their reserves. In 181 8 the legislature pronounced these 
grants illegal and unjust. They were surveyed by the State 
with other lands, and sold to the citizens. Litigation in 
the courts occurred to settle the disputed ownership, and 
caused angry dispute between the Indians and the claim- 
ants. This only made the Georgians more anxious to have 
the Indians removed. By such conflicts as these the rela- 
tions between the State and United States were constandy 
disturbed. The legislature therefore proposed that the gov- 
ernor correspond with the President of the United States, 
and secure if possible from the general government a satis- 
faction to the Indians in money for these illegal reserves, 
so that the conflict between all parties might cease. These 



17fi STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1821, 



measures were wise and judicious, but such bitter feeling 
prevailed, that little good was done. Accompanying the 
report the general assembly again sent a warm protest 
against the injurious delay of the United States in extin- 
guishing the Indian titles as agreed on in the Cession Act 
of 1802. 




[821.] ADMINISTRATION OF CLARKE. 179 



CHAPTER XXXVI. 

1821—1822. 

Clarke Re-elected Governor.— Nicholas 'Ware Elected Senator.— Act 1.o 
Change Mode of Electing Governor. — Bank Troubles. — Congressmen. — 
Penitentiary Report.— Relief Act.— Efforts to Further Extinguish In- 
dian Claims. — Creeks Determine to Cede no More Land. 

™^^HILE these troubles were occurring with the general 
oVWp government much political strife prevailed within the 
^^"^^^ State. The agitation of 1819, had grown to greater 
proportions. Clarke and Troup were again rival candidates 
for governor in the election to be held by the legislature in 
November, 1821. The friends of both were hotly engaged on 
the platform and in the newspapers for their favorite candi- 
dates. The contest became embittered by violent personal 
abuse. Party spirit was at fever heat. Never before was 
the State so agitated. The approaching election, the merits 
of the two opponents, the issues of the contest were the 
themes of common conversation. In this excitement, the 
legislators were elected by the people, and then the general 
assembly was also agitated by the excitement existing among 
the people. The general assembly proceeded to vote, and 
Governor Clarke was reelected by two votes, Troup having 
seventy-two and Clarke seventy-four. This second defeat 
of Troup was disheartening to his friends for the time, 
but their party spirit was still cherished as warmly as be- 
fore. It was one of the unhappy features of the times 
that the rival parties were ever ready to defame the oppos- 
ing candidate. 

2. Soon after the election of governor the legislature was 
called upon to elect a United States Senator to fill the 



180 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1821. 

vacancy caused by the resignation of Freeman Walker, and 

Nicholas Ware, of Augusta, was chosen. 

3. At this session it was proposed to change the mode of 
electing the governor. The constitution provided that this 
office should be elected by the legislature, and all previous 
elections for governor had been thus held. But now an 
act was passed which proposed to amend the constitution 
so as to have elections for governor by the people. The 
act prescribed that the elections should be held in the several 
counties on a certain day, and the tickets sent sealed to 
the general assembly to be opened in joint session of both 
branches. The person having the majority of the whole 
vote cast would be elected. If no person should have such 
majority, then from the two having the highest number of 
votes. The general assembly should elect by joint ballot, a 
majority of the members present being sufficient for a choice. 
The act was passed for the first time in 182 1, and being 
reenacted by a subsequent legislature became part of the 
constitution. 

4. The State was much disturbed at this time by the evils 
of the existing banking system. A United States bank had 
been established at Savannah, under the act of Congress, 
and the manner in which* it was conducted gave offense to 
the State bank. It was complained that the bank refused 
to issue its own bills, and by accumulating the bills of the 
State banks, took from the State the medium of exchange 
which had been created to facilitate the trade of the State. 
It was further urged that the United States bank made un- 
fair efforts to drain the State banks of their specie, and 
threatened their destruction, compeUing them to curtail their 
business so as to greatly oppress the people. The State 
banks were, in fact, unable to compete with the national 
banks, and were threatened with failure. 

5. Thus the State banking system, established by the legis- 
lature, became imperiled by the presence of the national 



i82i.] ADMINISTRATION OF CLARKE. 181 

banks. In consequence of which an important bank law was 
passed in 182 1, regulating the intercourse between the State 
banks and the banks of the United States, and its branches. 
It was designed to protect the State banks against oppres- 
sion. It provided that the State banks should not be forced 
to redeem in specie their bills presented by any of the 
branches of the United States banks, unless the officers so 
presenting them made oath that the bills actually belonged 
to the bank of the United States, and were not acquired for 
the purpose of demanding specie. Other provisions were 
added to prevent a "run" on the State banks by their more 
powerful rivals. But it was not until some time later that 
the intercourse between these banks was properly adjusted. 

6. The claims of Georgia against the Creek nation, which 
were being settled by the agents of the United States had 
reached nearly ninety thousand dollars, and were being daily 
presented and paid. Before a great while the State hoped 
to see the entire extinction of these claims, and the begin- 
ning of another era of peace and friendship between the 
Indians and the State. 

7. A statement of the affairs of the penitentiary for the 
year ending October 31, 1822, showed the system had been 
so admirably conducted, that instead of being a burden on 
the State, it had become a source of revenue. The con- 
victs received since the establishment of the institution for 
five years, were two hundred and seven in number. Of 
these, thirty-nine were pardoned, twelve died, eighteen 
escaped, and forty-eight were discharged, leaving in the 
penitentiary ninety convicts. Of the whole two hundred 
and seven, only thirty-six were born in Georgia. Nearly 
every nationality was represented within the walls, and it 
was ascertained that the majority of the crimes committed 
in the State, were committed by foreigners or persons com- 
ing from other States. 

8. An act was passed at this session for the relief of 

16 



182 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1822. 

honest debtors, declaring 'Uhat it does not comport with 
justice or expediency to deprive helpless women and children 
of the means of subsistence, and therefore these shall be 
exempted from sale and levies on account of debts con- 
tracted after March i, 1823." The following articles, viz., 
two beds and bedding, two common bedsteads, a spinning 
wheel and two pair of cards, a loom, a cow and calf, com- 
mon tools of trade, cooking utensils, and ten dollars worth 
of provisions. The act belonged to the class of relief laws, 
and was followed by other acts of exemption and relief as 
we shall hereafter see. 

9. Urged by the constant complaint from the State, Con- 
gress began to take measures toward extinguishing the Indian 
titles to Georgia lands. In 1822, a new treaty was proposed, 
and commissioners on the part of the United States pro- 
ceeded in the early part of 1823, to the Creek nation, and 
attempted to induce them to part with more of their land. 
The Creeks had already ceded nearly fifteen million acres, 
but still claimed to possess over six millions. The Cherokees 
had ceded nearly one miUion, and still claimed nearly ten 
million acres. These unceded lands were mostly along the 
northern and western bank of the Chattahoochee. The cost 
of the ceded lands in annuities and otherwise had amounted 
to one and a half million dollars, and annual payments were 
still being made. 

10. Having ceded so much of their land, the Creeks more 
powerful and troublesome than the Cherokees, became dis- 
contented, and suspected that the design of the whites was 
to remove them entirely from the State. Accordingly the 
chiefs called a great council of the nation in October, 1822, 
at New Town, in Cherokee agency. Here it was determined 
to hold no more treaties with any eommisioners of the 
United States for the purpose of ceding lands. They re- 
solved not to dispose of even one foot of ground. Here 
was an awkward position of affairs, but the two commis- 



1823.] ADMINISTRATION OF CLARKE. 183 

sioners already appointed proceeded upon their work in the 
expectation that the Indians would, at least, come and listen 
to their proposals; they went to Calhountown where they 
erected tents, and procured a large supply of provisions. 
They waited a few days, but the Indians did not come. 
Some few did at last attend, but so obedient were they to 
the orders of the council of their nation, that although the 
weather was inclement, they would not touch the food or 
venture inside the tents of the commissioners. The con- 
vention, therefore, proved a failure. 

11. The commissioners then waited upon Hicks, the prin- 
cipal chief, and remonstrated with him on the course his 
nation was pursuing. He heard them through, and asked, 
''Will you give us two dollars per acre for our land." Re- 
ceiving a negative answer, he replied, "Very well we know 
its value, and can keep it. As for the claims your people 
have against us, we can pay them without selling our land, 
whenever they are properly presented." Hicks spoke the 
voice of the nation, and it was plain that it would be diffi- 
cult to procure any further cession from the Creeks. After a 
few days the commissioners addressed a circular to the nation 
at large, and distributed it by express. Only a few answers 
were returned, and these referred to the resolutions of the 
council of the nation as preventing them from attending the 
convention. 

12. The commissioners then visited the head chiefs in per- 
son. But the interviewers with these various chiefs showed 
that no convention would be called by them. The commis- 
sioners, therefore, returned to the agency, sent an address to 
the Creek nation declaring the orders of their council rash, and 
insisting upon meeting them in a common council, August 9, 
1823, at Taloney. When the time came the commissioners 
repaired to the place, but had no success. The Indians 
were determined to cede no more of their land. 



184 STUDENTS HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1823. 



CHAPTER XXXVII. 

1823—1824. 

Troup Elected Governor.— Condition of State.— Memorial to Congress in 
Regard to Indian Removal. — Cherokee Delegation. — Action of President 
of United States.— Letter of Governor Troup.— Report of Committee. 




HE excitement which had agitated the State so 
greatly, arising from the strife of the Troup and 
Clarke parties had somewhat subsided, but was still 
considerable and ready to rise. Troup was again in the field 
as candidate for Governor, but was no longer opposed by 
Clarke. Matthew Talbot, the friend of Clarke, was the rival 
candidate. Talbot at the time of the death of Governor Rabun, 
had become governor of Georgia for several months by virtue 
of his office as president of the senate. He now aspired to be 
elected to that office, and looked to the Clarke party for sup- 
port. The contest was warm, and the friends of both candi- 
dates labored incessantly. Party lines were rigidly drawn 
and party spirit was fierce. As the election day drew near 
the excitement increased, and the violent agitation of 181 9 
and 182 1 was repeated. The legislation being chosen met 
in November, and as the change in the mode of electing gov- 
ernor by the people was not yet in force, their first duty was 
to elect a governor. The balloting lasted three days, and the 
metal of the parties was well tried. The decisive ballot took 
place November 6, 1823, and the result was the election of 
Troup by a majority of four votes. Troup eighty-five, Talbot 
eighty-one. 

2. Governor Troup was one of the most remarkable men 
Georgia ever produced. He was born at Mcintosh Bluff on 



i823.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 



185 



the Tombigby River, in what was then the territory of Geor- 
gia, now Alabama, in September, 1780. He was educated 
at Long Island, and upon graduating studied law in Savan- 
nah. In 1800, before he was twenty-one years of age, he was 
invited to represent Chatham County in the legislature. This 
he declined on account of his minority. One year later he 
was elected a representative of that county, and held a high 
position in the legislature. In 1806 he was sent to Congress, 
where he remained until 
181 5. He supported the 
administration of Jeffer- 
son and Madison, and 
was a confidential friend 
of both. In i8i6hewas 
elected United States 
Senator over Dr. Bibb, 
where he remained but 
two years. In 1823 he 
was raised to the chief 
magistracy of Georgia. 
He was a fervid, impas- 
sioned debater. Heroic 
in spirit, thoroughly hon- 
est and brave in follow- 
ing his convictions of 
duty. As a man of genius 
and patriotism, his equal 
has seldom been found. 




Governor Troup. 



3. November 7, 1823, the governor was inaugurated, and 
in delivering his address he said, " I have nothing to prom- 
ise but good intention, save only that I will endeavor that 
the laws be executed. The public functionaries as far as de- 
pends upon me, held to a strict accountability, and the State 
according to its means defended against its enemies." He 
summoned the people to peace and progress in the following 



186 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1823. 

patriotic manner: "Fellow citizens, let us cease our strife. 
Let our divisions be at an end. The march of science is so 
steady, the progress of its illumination is so irresistible in this 
great and growing country, that the generation to come may 
look back upon our foibles with pity. Let us discard our 
selfishness; therefore, let our motto be, 'God and our 

COUNTRY.' " 

4. The State at this time, notwithstanding the political di- 
visions into two parties, was in excellent condition. The 
money in the treasury amounted to about half a million dol- 
lars, and the State owned in bank and other stock one mil- 
lion dollars. The interest of the whole, at six per cent., was 
about ninety thousand dollars, which was sufficient, or nearly 
so, at that time to pay the ordinary expenses of the govern- 
ment. 

5. The vexed question between the general government 
and the State as has been noted, was the removal of the In- 
dians according to the agreement of 1802. The State grew 
weary with the United States government to fulfill the long 
standing obligation to extinguish the Indian claim to the 
Georgia lands. It will be remembered that in 1802, Georgia 
ceded to the United States all the territory that now com- 
prises the states of Alabama and Mississippi, containing fifty 
millions of acres, for the consideration of one million two 
hundred and fifty thousand dollars. In the articles of agree- 
ment it was distinctly stated "that the L^nited States shall 
at their own expense extinguish for the use of Georgia, 
as early as the same can be peaceably done on reasonable 
terms, the Indian title to all the lands within the State of 
Georgia." 

6. The United States by the various treaties of 1814, 181 7, 
and 1 82 1, had partially fulfilled this agreement, but still the 
Creeks and Cherokees held large possessions in the State. 
The State had patiently waited for years. Twenty years had 
gone, and Georgia had gained only one-half of the Indian 



1824.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 187 

territory. Earnest remonstrance had been often made to 
Congress in regard to this negUgence of the general govern- 
ment. In 1823 Governor Troup sent a message to the legis- 
lature, explaining the state of the case, and closed by saying : 
*'I recommend to you to address yourselves once more and 
for the last time to the justice of the United States, in lan- 
guage firm but respectful, to demand and insist, first, a lib- 
eral appropriation of money to extinguish the Indian claims to 
all the lands within our territorial limits; second, commanding 
instructions to her agents whoever they may be, that what of 
right ought to be done, shall be done." The legislature 
adopted the advice of the governor, and sent an earnest and 
eloquent address to the President of the United States, in- 
sisting upon the territorial rights of the State, and the removal 
of the Indians. 

7. The Cherokees saw that they must take part in this 
great controversy, and sent a delegation consisting of John 
Ross, George Lowry, Major Ridge, and Elijah Hicks, to 
Washington City, and addressed a communication to the 
President of the United States, in which they stated "the 
Cherokee nation have now come to the unalterable conclu- 
sion not to cede any more lands." The Cherokees claimed 
to have their own printed constitution and code of laws. 
They pretended to be an independent and separate State, and 
claimed protection from the United States. 

8. The senators from Georgia at that time were John Elli- 
ott, and Nicholas Ware; the representatives were Joel Ab- 
bott, George Carey, Thomas W. Cobb, Alfred Cuthbert, 
John Forsyth, Edward F. Tatnall, and Wiley Thompson. 

9. On the 30th of March, 1824, the President sent a 
message to Congress in regard to these Georgia and Indian 
claims. He stated the case and expressed the opinion "that 
the Indian title was not affected in the slightest circumstance 
by the compact of Georgia and that there is no obligation on 
the United States to remove the Indians by force." 



188 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1824. 

10. This message and the discussions in Congress pro- 
voked a letter from Troup, by which he protested against the 
manner in which Georgia claims were treated. Governor 
Troup declared the message of the President contained prin- 
ciples which he controverted, and facts which he would not 
admit. He asked the question, " Is it discovered at last that 
Georgia has no claims either upon the United States or upon 
the Indians under the compact of 1802 ? is that all a dream, a 
vision, a phantasma with which the people of Georgia have been 
deluding themselves for twenty years?" He showed the 
neglect of the United States in fulfilling the agreement of 
1802, and in a firm but respectful manner made his remon- 
strance. The Georgia delegation in Congress likewise ad- 
dressed a letter to the President upon t4ie same subject, de- 
nouncing the tardiness of the government, and insisting 
upon action by Congress. 

11. Congress finally referred the question to a select commit- 
tee consisting of Forsyth, Cuthbert, and Thomas W. Cobb, 
of Georgia, McDuffie of South Carohna, and Long of North 
Carolina. This able committee considered the question and sus- 
tained the claims of Georgia. Their report proposed the fol- 
lowing resolutions. ''Resolved: That the United States are 
bound by their obHgations to Georgia to take immediately the 
necessary measures for the removal of the Cherokee Indians 
beyond the limits of that State. Resolved: That such an 
arrangement with the State of Georgia should be made, as 
may lead to the final adjustment of the claims of that State 
under the compact of 1802, with the least possible inconven- 
ience to the Cherokee and Creek Indians within the boundary 
of the State." 

12. Two days after a communication was received from the 
Cherokee delegates, animadverting upon the letter of Gover- 
nor Troup and the remonstrance of the Georgia delegation. 
The communication declared that the Cherokees had resolved 
never to yield any more of their lands, and so far as the 



[824.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 



189 



emigration of the Cherokees was concerned, ' ' such an event 
will never take place." 

13. The practical difficulties were in fact so great that no 
treaty was held with the Cherokees during this session of the 
Congress, and nothing further was done. The subject of 
their removal was still agitated, however, and settled several 
years later. 




190 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1824. 



CHAPTER XXXVIII. 

1824-1825. 

Troup's Message to Legislature.— Berrien and Cobb Elected Senators,— 
Trouble with Creeks. — Broken Arrow. — Indian Springs. — Cession of all 
Lands Inside of State.— Excitement Among Creeks— Indians Seek Pro- 
tection of Troup.— Death of Mcintosh.— General Gaines.— Survey of In- 
dian Territory. 

HE legislature of Georgia met in November, 1824. 
The message from Governor Troup spoke of the mi- 
litia, and recommended several changes and improvements. 
He advised a thorough system of education, and a careful 
revision and perfection of the judiciary system and peniten- 
tiary arrangements. He exposed the Indian controversy and 
the relations with the general government, and made a noble 
appeal to the legislature to exercise wisdom and prudence. 

2. Nicholas Ware, senator from Georgia, having died, 
Thomas W. Cobb was elected in his place. Also John M. 
Berrien was elected to succeed John Elliott. 

3. The troubles with the Cherokees which had subsided 
was taken up by the Creeks in 1824. The President of the 
United States announced to Congress that commissioners had 
been appointed, and negotiations with the Creek Indians 
were pending. The commissioners were James Merriwether 
and Duncan G. Campbell of Georgia. These commission- 
ers met the chiefs of the Creek nation December, 1824, at 
Broken Arrow, which was the seat of their national council. 
A cession of land was proposed, but refused. At the meet- 
ing a communication was read from the Cherokees, advising 
the Creeks not to part with any more of their land, which 
prevented the meeting at Broken Arrow from being success- 
ful. 



1825.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 191 

4. Another meeting was appointed at Indian Springs for 
February 7, 1825. On the loth, nearly four hundred chiefs 
and head men had assembled. The council proceeded to 
business, and after a friendly talk a treaty was concluded 
and signed February 12, 1825, by all the chiefs present ex- 
cept the delegation from Tuckabatchee and one chief from 
Talladega. While the treaty was being discussed and ex- 
plained a part of the chiefs disappeared. These chiefs were 
opposed to ceding the land, and in council had vowed ven- 
geance "upon any who might make such a treaty. 

5. By this treaty the Creeks ceded to the United States 
"all the lands lying within the boundaries of the State of 
Georgia as defined by the compact of 1802." For this ces- 
sion they were to obtain lands of "hke quality, acre for acre, 
westward of the Mississippi," and the time of their removal 
was not to "extend beyond the first day of September in 
the year eighteen hundred and twenty-six." This treaty was 
signed by the United States commissioners, by William Mc- 
intosh, the head chiefs of Cowetas, and fifty-one other chiefs. 

6. In a short time another council of the Creek nation 
was held at Broken Arrow, by those chiefs opposed to the 
exchange of lands. Here an earnest protest was made against 
the Indian Springs treaty which was signed by the chiefs and 
sent to Washington City. The remonstrance, however, did 
not prevail, for the treaty was ratified by the President of 
the United States March 3, 1825, with the advice and con- 
sent of the Senate. 

7. When it became known that the treaty was ratified by 
the general government great excitement arose among the 
Creek nation. The Indians opposed to the treaty declared 
that as a law had been enacted in council against the further 
cession of land that the late treaty at Indian Springs vio- 
lated this solemn compact. Death was threatened to Mcin- 
tosh and his party, and many of the tribe rose in arms 
against the signers of the treaty. 



192 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1825. 

8. February 17th, Mcintosh and several other chiefs went 
to Milledgeville and inquired if they could rely upon Georgia 
and the United States for support. Governor Troup prom- 
ised them the protection for which they asked. With char- 
acteristic promptness he also dispatched one of his aides-de- 
camp, Colonel Henry G. Lamar, with a message to the 
hostile Creeks. He threatened them with severe punish- 
ment if they committed any acts of hostility, but implored 
them to be reasonable and peaceable. Colonel Lamar vis- 
ited the towns of Kussetaw and Tuckabatchee, and held a 
talk with them, 

9. March 21, 1825, Governor Troup issued his proclama- 
tion to announce the ratification of the treaty at Indian 
Springs, and soon afterward sent a letter to Mcintosh re- 
questing permission to survey the territory ceded by the 
treaty in order to extend over it the jurisdiction of the State. 
Mcintosh summoned his chiefs at Broken Arrow, and through 
them permission was given to have the lands surveyed. 
Mcintosh and his party, with a large number of friendly In- 
dians, also began to make preparations to depart for the lands 
west of the Mississippi. 

10. But the unfriendly Indians were determined on the 
death of Mcintosh. Big Warrior, the chief of the Muscogee 
Confederacy, and Hopothleyoholo, a gifted orator and states- 
man of the Creeks, called a council of the nation and con- 
demned the offenders to die. 

11. The murdering party consisted of one hundred and 
seventy men led by Tuskehado, Manowa, and Hopothleyo- 
holo. They proceeded in the most cautious manner to the 
residence of Mcintosh upon the bank of the Chattahoochee 
River. Arriving on the spot they concealed themselves un- 
til the hour of three in the morning of the ist of May, 1825. 
Securing a supply of pitch-pine they tied it in bundles, placed 
it upon the backs of three stout warriors, and then cau- 
tiously approaching the dwelling entered an out-house in the 



1825.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 193 

yard. Here they found an old peddler with Chilly Mcin- 
tosh, the son of the general. The latter sprang to his feet, 
leaped through the window, and made his escape to the 
woods. Shots were fired after him but with no effect. The 
principal body of Indians then surrounded the main dwelling 
in the dark, and guarded every way of escape. The com- 
bustible pine was now kindled, and torches were appHed to 
various parts of the house. The lurid light showed to the 
brave Mcintosh by whom he was attacked and the hopeless- 
ness of escape. He was the only occupant of the burning 
house except an Indian friend, who was shot as he tried to 
fly from the place. Retreating to the second story Mcintosh 
used four guns which he had in the house and kept his enemies 
at bay. But the flames drove him down, and coming into 
an exposed position was instantly shot. Pierced in several 
places he fell, and was then dragged down the steps and out 
into the yard by the infuriated Indians. Lying on the ground 
he raised himself on one elbow and defied his enemies. At 
that moment an Ocfuskee Indian plunged a knife up to the 
hilt into his heart, and heaving a deep sigh the noble general 
expired. The party now plundered the burning house, killed 
the stock, and laid the premises in ruins. Thus terribly did 
the brave Mcintosh who, by birth, was the first cousin of 
Troup, suffer the vengeance of his Indian countrymen. 

12. The alarm and excitement among the Indians and 
whites consequent on this bloody deed was very great. Gov- 
ernor Troup issued orders to the major-generals of Georgia 
militia to be in instant readiness to march into the Creek 
country, and suppress any rebellious or insurrectionary spirit. 
He advised the friendly Indians to remain quiet until he 
could take measures for their protection. The Indians in 
great numbers abandoned their homes and flocked to the 
white settlements for defense. The wildest alarm prevailed 
all over the State. 

13. General Gaines was ordered by the Secretary of War 

17 



194 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1825. 

to go to Milledgeville, and confer with Troup in this emer- 
gency. An unfortunate difference of opinion as to the proper 
Indian poUcy between these two parties occurred, and a bitter 
controversy ensued. Governor Troup was determined in up- 
holding the treaty and in subduing the hostile Indians. His 
firmness at this juncture saved the State much trouble. 

14. The called session of 1825 ordered the ceded terri- 
tory to be surveyed. When the President of the United 
States was informed of this action of Georgia he directed the 
governor to forbear the surveys. This, Governor Troup re- 
fused to do, declaring thnt Georgia owned the soil, and had 
the right to survey it. The President therefore threatened 
to arrest the surveyors, but Governor Troup undeterred by 
the threat went on with the survey. But when later the 
President proposed to refer the treaty to Congress for recon- 
sideration, the survey was suspended. Thus the matter 
rested until the next year when it was revived. . 



[825.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 195 



CHAPTER XXXIX. 

1835—1826. 

Troup re-elected Governor.— Adams Elected President of United States.— La 
Fayette's Visit to Georgia.— Creek Treaty at Washington City.— Protest 
of Congressmen.— Action of Governor Troup.— Boundary Between Geor- 
gia and Alabama. 

^^HE first election of governor by the people under the 
^K amended constitution, took place in October, 1825, 
^^^^^ and was the occasion of great excitement. Hitherto 
the election of governor was by the general assembly, but 
now the voting was done by the ballots of the people in the 
same way in which they voted for members of the legis- 
lature. 

2. Governor Troup was a candidate for reelection. He 
stood upon the platform of his Indian policy, and desired a 
popular endorsement of his administration. His opponent 
was his old antagonist, General Clarke, and both candidates 
were announced several months before the day of election. 
All the old political animosity revived as the canvass went on, 
and the State suffered a convulsion equaled only by the 
Yazoo agitation. The press and the platform were monop- 
ohzed by pohtical discussion. All questions were ignored 
except those that were in this issue of the contest. Bitter 
hatreds sprang up even in families caused by undue partisan 
zeal. Every argument, proper and improper, was employed, 
and even personal misrepresentation was resorted to in order 
to affect the election. Thus it was urged that Governor 
Troup's father was a Tory ; on the other side it was declared 
that General Clarke's father had betrayed the government. 
Governor Troup was accused of being an alien, born in Ala- 
bama; General Clarke was pronounced a Yazoo man, and it 



196 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1825. 



was gravely charged that he had shot at the effigy of George 
Washington. PoHtical virulence and party rancor were rife, 
and the State reeled in the intoxication of party spirit. 

3. The day of election came on in October. There were 
sixty counties, and in each a scene of wild contention. The 
election returns were sent to Milledgeville and counted by the 
Legislature which met in November, and the vote in the 
whole State was for Troup, twenty thousand five hundred 
and forty-five ; for Clarke, nineteen thousand eight hundred 
and sixty-two; majority for Troup six hundred and eighty- 
two. In the legislature, however, it was ascertained that a 

majority of the members be- 
longed to the Clarke party, 
and that Clarke would have 
been elected governor under 
the old system. 

4. John Quincy Adams 
was now President of the 
United States, having been 
inaugurated March 4, 1825. 
In the presidential election 
of 1824, four candidates 
were before the people. Wil- 
liam H. Crawford, of Geor- 
gia, Henry Clay, of Ken- 
tucky, Andrew Jackson, of 
Tennessee, and John Quincy 
Neither of these received a ma_ 
and therefore the United States 
House of Representatves were required to choose the Presi- 
dent. The vote elected Adams. Crawford's health failed 
during the race, he was practically withdrawn. 

5. An interesting event now occured in the visit to Georgia 
of the aged La Fayette. He had been absent fifty years, and 
in his old age desired to revisit America, the scene of so many 




La Fayette. 

Adams, of Massachusetts, 
jority of electoral votes, 



i826.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 197 

triumphs. Acting under a joint resolution of the two 
branches of the legislature, Governor Troup met the ship 
which bore him to Savannah, March 19, 1825. As the ven- 
erable patriot stepped ashore, he was affectionately welcomed 
as the guest of the State. He remained a few days ya Sa- 
vannah, feasted and toasted with distinguishing attention. 
From Savannah he went to Augusta, and from thence to Mil- 
ledgeville, where he was entertained at the executive man- 
sion. At a public dinner given in his honor. Governor 
Troup gave the following toast: "A union of all hearts to honor 
the nation's guest." 

6. January 24, 1826, another treaty was made at Wash- 
ington City with thirteen Creek chiefs, witnessed by John 
Crowell, agent for Indian affairs. This treaty President 
Adams presented to the Senate in place of the treaty at 
Indian Springs, and warmly advised its ratification. By 
this treaty a cession of land was made by the Creeks to 
the United States, for which the United States were to pay 
about two hundred thousand dollars, and a perpetual annu- 
ity of twenty thousand dollars. But a large tract, amount- 
ing to about three hundred thousand acres, which had been 
ceded to Georgia at Indian Springs, was reconveyed to the 
Creeks. 

7. The Georgia delegation in Congress at that time was 
composed of Alfred Cuthbert, George Carey, John Forsyth, 
E. F. Tatnall, C. H. Haynes, Wiley Thompson, and James 
Merriwether. These members entered an earnest protest 
against this new treaty. They claimed that the treaty at In- 
dian Springs was not null and void, and that the United 
States had no right to make another. Notwithstanding this 
protest, the treaty was ratified by the Senate April 22, 1826, 
by a large majority. Berrien and Cobb, Senators from Geor- 
gia, attempted to defeat it, but without success. Governor 
Troup wrote a letter to the Georgia Representatives declaring 
''the opposition was inconsistent with the treaty at Indian 



198 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1826 

Springs, and that the United States were unauthorized in their 
action, and that he did not recognize their power in the 
premises." In his subsequent action toward the Creeks he 
paid no respect to the pretended treaty, but regarded it as of 
no authority whatever. 

8. The subject of running the boundary line between 
Georgia and Alabama next engaged the attention of Gover- 
nor Troup. In 1822 the legislature requested the governor 
to take as speedy measures as possible on the subject and the 
same requests were afterward repeated, and the aid of the 
general government called for. In 1826 Governor Troup 
wrote to the Secretary of War and inquired if it was the in- 
tention of the United States government to assist in or pro- 
hibit the running of the dividing line between Georgia and 
Alabama. No definite answer was returned. In March the 
Board of Public Works in Georgia held a meeting for the 
purpose of running the dividing line between the two States, 
and between Georgia and the Cherokees. But they found 
themselves in an awkward position since the recent treaty at 
Washington prescribed new boundaries not only with Ala- 
bama, but with the Indians. Nothing was done, therefore, 
except to urge the governor to run the line as soon as possi- 
ble. A correspondence between Governor Murphy of Ala- 
bama, and Governor Troup, resulted in the appointment of 
two commissioners from Alabama, and three from Georgia, to 
mark out the boundary Hne. The Alabama commissioners 
were Arthur P. Bagley and Charles Lewis. They met the 
Georgia commissioners, Richard A. Blount, Joel Crawford, 
and Everard Hamilton, at Fort Mitchell, in July, and be- 
gan the survey. An experimental line was run, but the 
commissioners failed to agree. This produced a controversy, 
and the Alabama commissioners withdrew, leaving the Geor- 
gia commissioners to proceed alone. This they did, and fin- 
ished the work September, 1826. This line Alabama refused 
for some time to acknowledge, but finally allowed it, and the 
line then run became the dividing line between the two States. 



i826.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 199 




CHAPTER XL. 

1826. 

Survey of Indian Territory.— Complaints of Indians.— Trouble with Gen- 
eral Government. — Cession of Remaining Indian Lands. — End of 
Trouble.— Internal Improvements.— Board of Public Works. 

Y the United States treaty with the Creeks at Wash- 
ington it was agreed that they should keep pos- 
session of the ceded lands until January i, 1827. 
Governor Troup, not recognizing this treaty, and 
desiring to divide the territory into districts, appointed sur 
veyors to survey the ceded lands, who, in September, 1826, 
began the survey. But the Indians complained loudly, and 
sent their complaints to the general government. The Secre- 
tary of War wrote to Governor Troup that the President of 
the United States felt ''himself constrained by the plighted 
faith of the nation to state to you, that he considers an 
entry on the ceded lands as a violation of the treaty." He 
desired Georgia to desist from further prosecution of the 
survey until it is authorized by the treaty. The governor 
replied, explaining the nature of the survey, but refusing to 
desist. He told the Secretary of War that the Indian com- 
plaint was on the instigation of designing persons; that the 
surveyors were peaceably doing an important work, not dis- 
turbing but benefitting both whites and Indians. In the 
meantime the surveyors of the land still continued their 
work. 

2. Many threats of violence were made by the Indians, 
but Governor Troup had carefully provided for the protec- 
tion of the surveyors. In this state of affairs the legislature 
met November, 1826, and Governor Troup laid before them 



200 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1826. 

a full account of the events of the past year, and the rela- 
tions of the State with the general government. He urged 
them to organize the territory lately acquired by the treaty 
of Indian Springs, to proceed in the survey, and dispose of 
it by lottery. 

3. The increasing complaints from the Cherokee Indians 
that the surveyors were trespassing upon their lands induced 
the Secretary of War, James Barbour, to send Lieutenant 
Vinton to Governor Troup with messages that the surveyors 
must desist from their work. If he refused to stop them, 
military force would be employed, and Georgia would be 
forced to yield. 

4. The threat which the official letter contained was promptly 
met by Governor Troup in the following words: ''You will 
distinctly understand, therefore, that I feel it to be my duty to 
resist to the utmost every military attack which the govern- 
ment of the United States shall think proper to make on the 
territory, the people or the sovereignty of Georgia, from the 
first decisive act of hostility you will be considered and 
treated as a public enemy, and with the less repugnance 
because you to whom we might constitutionally have ap- 
pealed foi our own defence against invasion, are yourselves 
the invaders, and what is more, the unblushing allies of the 
savages whose cause you have adopted." 

5. Following this fiery correspondence, orders were issued 
from Troup that the attorneys and solicitors general in every 
case of complaint of arrest by the authority of the govern- 
ment of the United States, take measures to Hberate the 
arrested parties, and bring to justice the persons engaged in 
the arrest. Likewise, the major-generals commanding the 
sixth and seventh divisions of Georgia militia were ordered 
to hold their commands in readiness to repel any hostile in- 
vasion of the territory of the State. 

6. Thus Georgia defied the threat of the United States. 
The crisis of the long controversy was now reached, but 



1826.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 201 

happily the strife was avoided. As soon as it was seen that 
miHtary threat only provoked the people of Georgia to re- 
sistance, wiser councils prevailed at Washington City. Con- 
gress recommended immediate measures to secure all the 
lands from the Indians within the limits of Georgia. Lieu- 
tenant Vinton was ordered to use his influence to procure a 
friendly cession from the Indians, and fortunately succeeded. 

7. The consent of the Creek chiefs being obtained, a 
meeting was called at the Creek agency, November, 1827, 
where the chiefs and head men ceded to the United States 
all the remaining lands they owned within the chartered 
limits of Georgia. In consideration of this they were paid 
about twenty-eight thousand dollars. This treaty was rati- 
fied, March 4, 1828, and ended the difficulty with the Creek 
Indians in Georgia. 

8. Throughout the whole controversy, Governor Troup had 
pursued a firm and consistent course, which won general 
praise. He had insisted upon the rights of his State, and 
secured them. 

9. The delay of Congress in regard to the removal of the 
Indians as promised by the treaty of 1802, the intermeddling 
of white emissaries with Indian affairs, the threats of Federal 
force against the State by the Secretary of War, all tended 
to alienate Georgia from the Union. But in all the con- 
troversy of nearly twenty-four years, the State claimed only 
the fulfillment of the treaty, and exhibited commendable at- 
tachment to the Constitution and the Union. 

10. The lottery system was adopted to distribute the lands 
gained by these recent treaties, and with such expedition 
were the surveys and distribution made that in a little while 
the new counties of Muscogee, Troup, Coweta, and Carroll 
were organized. The first named was called Muscogee to 
perpetuate the memory of the Creek or Muscogee nation of 
Indians. 

11. Georgia had early turned its attention to the subject 



202 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1826. 

of internal improvements. Governor Troup now said in his 
message: ''The period has arrived when Georgia can no 
longer postpone the great work of internal improvement." 
He recommended that measures be taken in that direction, 
and tne legislature followed his suggestion. 

12, A conditional appropriation of ten thousand dollars 
was made to commence a system of internal improvements 
for the benefit of the State. An act was also passed "to 
create a board of public works, and to provide for the com- 
mencement of a system of internal improvement. Seven per- 
sons were to be elected annually by the legislature, who, with 
the governor, would constitute "the board of public works 
of the State of Georgia," and an appropriation of five thou- 
sand dollars was made for its use. 

13. The first meeting of the board took place at Milledge- 
ville in 1826, and Hamilton Fulton was appointed principal 
engineer. At the first session of the board, two corps of 
engineers were appointed to make surveys for an extensive 
system of canals to intersect the State in several directions, 
from the Atlantic Ocean to the Tennessee River, and from 
the Savannah to the Flint Rivers. 

M. During the summer of 1826, the surveys w^ere made, 
and when the Board met in October, 1826, Chief Engineer 
Fulton, supported by Governor Troup and Mr. Cowper, rec- 
ommended the abandonment of canals and the substitution 
of railroads. Their proposition caused a disagreement among 
the engineers, and the discussion resulted in the dissolution 
of the board, and the abandonment for a time of the pro- 
jected system of internal improvement. The State was not 
yet ready for a system of railroads. 

15. There were at the time but twenty-six miles of rail- 
roads in the United States. The first railroad in the United 
States was just built in this year, 1826, and was used in 
carrying granite from the quarries of Quincy, Massachusetts. 
The first locomotive was imported from England in 1829. 



[1 826.] ADMINISTRATION OF TROUP. 203 

A system of canals would have cost, by estimate, fifteen 
million dollars, which the State could have ill afforded at that 
time. In December, 1826, the act creating the board of public 
works was repealed, and the central canal or railway system 
abandoned. This checked for a time internal improvements 
in the State, but before many years the subject was renewed 
with more success. 




204 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1828. 



CHAPTER XLL 

1827—1829. 

Forsyth Elected Governor.— Protective Tariff.— Jackson Elected President 
of the United States. — Athens Factory. — Gilmer Elected Governor. — 
Condition of State 

I^giOVERNOR TROUP'S term of office expired in 1827, 
[l^^^l and he declined to become a candidate for re-elec- 
tion. John Forsyth was therefore chosen to lead the 
Troup party in the gubernatorial contest. The old Clarke 
party brought forward Matthew Talbot as a candidate, but 
he died before the election took place. Duncan G. Camp- 
bell, who had many friends and strong support, was then 
proposed, but he formally retired from the race. So John 
Forsyth was elected governor without opposition. 

2. He was born in Virginia, and brought to Georgia when 
only four. He graduated at Princeton, studied law in 
Augusta with Noel, and commenced practice in 1802. Soon 
after he was appointed attorney-general for the State, and as 
such won immediate distinction. In 181 1 he was sent to 
Congress, and in 1818 was elected to the United States Sen- 
ate, where he won the admiration of the whole country. 
In 1 818 he was sent to Spain as minister. By much ability 
and prudence he brought the controversy between Spain and 
the United States in regard to Florida to a termination. In 
1823 he was again sent to the House of Representatives in 
Congress. In 1827 he was honored by the people of Georgia 
with the highest office in their power. 

3. In 1828 a protective tariff was passed by Congress, 
which was the cause of great political agitation. The act 
laid a heavy tax on foreign goods imported in the United 



[829.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF GILMER. 



205 



States. This was done to aid American manufacturers to 
compete with those of Europe. The tariff policy was favored 
highly by the Eastern States, while the Southern States gen- 
erally opposed it. 

4. During this excitement another presidential election 
took place. President Adams was again a candidate sup- 
ported by the tariff party, 
and was opposed by An- 
drew Jackson, who was 
the candidate of the anti- 
administra tion party. 
The election resulted in 
favor of Andrew Jack- 
son, of Tennessee, for 
President and John C. 
Calhoun, of South Car- 
olina, for Vice-President. 
In forming his cabinet 
President Jackson ap- 
pointed John M. Berrien, 
of Georgia, attorney- 
general. 

5. March 26, 1829, 
the corner-stone of the 
Athens Factory was laid. 
This was among the first factories in the State after the war 
of 1 81 2. The building was burned soon after, but was re- 
built, and is still in operation. 

6. In October, 1829, another election for governor took 
place. The candidates were George R. Gilmer aud Joel 
Crawford. The election resulted in the choice of Gilmer. 

7. George R. Gilmer was born April 17, 1790, in Wilkes 
County. Ill health prevented an early application to text- 
books, and he spent the most of his youth and early man- 
hood in military service. In October, 1813, he was appointed 

18 




John Forsyth. 



206 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1829. 

first lieutenant of the forty-third regiment of infantry, and 
acted an important and serviceable part in the war of 181 2. 
After the war he returned to Oglethorpe County, and began 
the practice of law in Lexington, and soon acquired reputa- 
tion. He represented that county in the State legislature 
two years. In 1820 and 1824 he was elected to Congress. 
In 1829 was elected governor. During his term of service 
the State enjoyed increasing prosperity. The people were 
enterprising, thrifty, and intelligent. Immigration from the 
Carolinas, Virginia, and other States, introduced large num- 




Hauling Cotton. 

bers of valuable citizens. General quiet for the time pre- 
vailed, and the State seemed gathering strength for a new 
departure on a new and high development. 

8. The population of the State at this time, as shown by 
the census of 1830, was five hundred and sixteen thousand 
eight hundred and twenty-three, of which number two hun- 
dred and seventeen thousand five hundred and thirty-one 
were slaves. 

The exports amounted to four million dollars, and the im- 
ports four hundred thousand dollars. 

The export of cotton from the port of Savannah amounted 
to two hundred and forty-seven thousand six hundred and 
sixty-two bales. 

There were now sixty-four academies in active educational 



i83o.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF GILMER. 



207 



work, with over three thousand pupils, and besides these 
there were many minor schools giving imperfect instruction. 
Religion had not been neglected. Various denominations 
of Christians had built churches in the settled country, and 
their ministers were foremost in promoting the general wel- 
fare of the State. 




208 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1829. 




CHAPTER XLII. 

1829—1833. 

The Cherokees.— Resolution for Removal.— Jurisdiction over Indian Terri- 
tory.— Case Before Supreme Court.— Discovery of Gold.— Resolution to 
Stop Illicit Mining.— Efforts of Major Wager.— Case of Tassel.— Mission- 
aries Among the Indians.— Their Imprisonment and Release. 



E have already seen that the difficulty between 
Georgia and the Creek Indians was temporarily 
settled in 1827, by the removal of some of the tribe 
west of the Mississippi River, and the cession of all 
-iy» their territory to the State. With the Cherokees who 
\ ' still remained trouble still existed. They claimed to 
be advancing in civilization, and as they were forsaking their 
savage costumes, they desired to remain on a separate scope 
of territory in the State of Georgia. The general government 
had made numerous treaties with the Cherokees, and now 
claimed the right of protecting them, and prohibited persons 
from settling in the Indian territory without permission. 

2. In 1829 Wilson Lun^pkin introduced a resolution in 
Congress proposing measures for the removal of the Chero- 
kees. The resolution was referred to the committee on In- 
dian affairs, who reported in favor of their removal. A bill was 
then introduced to effect the transfer across the Mississippi 
River of all the Indian tribes, which was finally passed. 
Under this act many tribes went West, but the Cherokees re- 
fused to give their consent. 

3. The State of Georgia was now compelled, on account 
of numerous criminal outrages in which the offenders could 
not be tried and punished, to extend its jurisdiction over the 
territory claimed by the Cherokees. To this end an act was 



1829.] ADMINISTRATION OF GILMER. 209 

passed 1829 by the general assembly entitled, "An act to add 
the territory lying within the chartered limits of Georgia, now 
in the occupancy of the Cherokee Indians, to the counties of 
Carroll, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Hall, and Habersham, and to 
extend the laws of this State over the same, and to annul all 
laws and ordinances made by the Cherokee nation of In- 
dians." 
« 

4. The passage of this act created great indignation among 
the Cherokees. They protested against this claim of Georgia 
to exercise control over their lands, and determined to decide 
the question by a suit in the courts. William Wirt and John 
Sergeant were employed as counsel to represent the nation 
before the United States courts. William Wirt and Governor 
Gilmer opened correspondence upon the subject in which 
Governor Gilmer refused absolutely to submit the question to 
supreme court, and pronounced the proposition to do so '*ex- 
ceedingly disrespectful " to the government of the State. 

5. It was about this time that the discovery and mining of 
gold created excitement in the northern counties of the State. 
Gold was discovered in Habersham County as early as 1828. 
The work was prosecuted by some parties with vigor, and by 
July 1830, two hundred and thirty thousand dollars worth of 
the metal had been taken out of Habersham, Hall, and 
Cherokee counties. The mining fever broke out in the 
State, and many persons disregarding the laws against tres- 
passing upon Indian lands, crossed over the Chattahoochee 
River and began mining upon the Indian territory. The In- 
dians themselves began digging for gold. There being no 
individual property holders among the Cherokees, the land 
belonging in common to the whole nation, much strife and 
trouble arose. 

6. This illegal mining and trespassing was brought to the 
notice of the governor, and he issued a proclamation calling 
the legislature together to devise measures ,to suppress the 
threatening evil. The legislature met October 18, 1830, and 



210 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1830. 

passed very stringent laws, but the illicit gold digging still 
continued, and it was found necessary to resort to force to 
stop both Indians and whites. Major Wager, of the United 
States army, was put in command of a company of infantry, 
and being reinforced by troops from Charleston and Au- 
gusta, marched into the Cherokee nation. 

7. Major Wager soon arrived at his destination, destroyed 
the provisions, camp equipages, working utensils, and what- 
ever else belonged to the gold diggers. He seized the dig- 
gers themselves, conveyed them to the nearest ferry, and put 
them across the river. At least one hundred were arrested 
and removed. The United States troops scoured the coun- 
try and seized all the miners they met, kept them in con- 
finement several days, and released them with threats of 
punishment if the offense was repeated. The whites were all- 
finally driven back across the Chattahoochee River, and the 
Indians prevented from further operations. 

8. The State of Georgia having extended its criminal juris- 
diction over the Cherokee territory, took cognizance of all 
crime committed therein. George Tassel, a Cherokee In- 
dian, having committed murder, was arrested by the State 
authorities, and tried in Hall County superior court. There 
he was convicted and sentenced by Judge Clayton to be hung. 
Whereupon Tassel by his counsel appealed to the Supreme 
Court of the United States. Accordingly Governor Gilmer 
was summoned by John Marshall, Chief Justice, to appear 
for the State of Georgia, before the Supreme Court of the 
United States, December 22, 1830. 

9. The governor sent a communication to the general as- 
sembly then in session, informing them that he had received 
this citation to answer for the trial and conviction of George 
Tassel. He said, " Orders received from the supreme court 
for the puri)Ose of staying or in any manner interfering with 
the decisions of the courts of the State in the exercise of their 
constitutional jurisdiction, will be disregarded; and any at- 



1830.] ADMINISTRATION OF GILMER. 2\\ 

tempt to enforce such order will be resisted with whatever 
force the laws have placed at my command." 

10. The general assembly repHed that they viewed with 
deep regret the interference with the criminal laws of the 
State, and that such interference was a flagrant violation of 
the State's rights. They requested Governor Gilmer to dis- 
regard every mandate and process that had been or should 
be served upon him. The resolutions ended by authorizing 
the authorities of Hall County to proceed with the execution 
of George Tassel, convicted of murder in that county. The 
sentence was faithfully carried out, and Tassel was executed 
within a few days. 

11. This gave rise to further excitement among the Chero- 
kees. The Cherokee nation appealed to the Supreme Court 
of the United States for an injunction to restrain the State of 
Georgia from exercising its authority over the Cherokee ter- 
ritory. The supreme court refused the injunction, and de- 
cided that the case was not within the jurisdiction of the 
court. 

12. It will be remembered that a law had been passed by 
the general assembly prohibiting all persons from settling on 
the Cherokee lands. But, notwithstanding this law, a number 
of people, among them several missionaries, had taken up 
their abode within the tribe, and refused to leave. Missiona- 
ries were accused of giving advice upon political questions, and 
putting obstacles between the Cherokees and the State gov- 
ernment. December 29, 1830, a meeting was held by them at 
New Echota, and they adopted a resolution denying the ac 
cusations. 

13. The general assembly soon after passed a law enacting 
that all white men found residing in the Cherokee lands after 
a certain time, without the express permission of the proper 
authorities, and without having taken an oath of allegiance to 
the State of Georgia, should be imprisoned in the penitenti- 
ary and kept at hard labor for not less than four years. Sev- 



212 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1831. 

eral missionaries determined to disregard this law. The 
Georgia guards were therefore ordered to scour the country 
and arrest the trespassers. In 1831, Rev. Samuel Worcester, 
missionary of the American Board of Foreign Missions, 
Isaac Procter and John Thompson were thus arrested and 
tried before Hall County superior court. Judge Clayton de- 
cided that as Worcester was a postmaster, and the others were 
engaged in distributing the charities of the United States 
among the Indians as agents of the government, the law did 
not apply to them. Consequently they were all discharged. 

14. Governor Gilmer afterward communicated with the gen- 
eral government, and learned that these missionaries were not 
authorized agents of the United States; that Worcester had 
been removed from his position as postmaster. They were 
all therefore again ordered to leave the Indian territory within 
ten days. At the end of this time Worcester and Eliza But- 
ler with eight others were found within the Cherokee nation 
in defiance of the order of the governor. The trial took place 
September 15, 1831, and the ten missionaries were convicted 
of illegally residing upon the Cherokee lands in defiance of 
the laws of the State, and were sentenced to the penitentiary. 
Eight of these yielded to the State's authority, and were set 
at liberty. The arrest, trial and punishment of the mission- 
aries excited profound interest and discussion all over the 
State and Union. 

15. But the two missionaries, Worcester and Butler, still 
remaimed imprisoned in the penitentiary. They had engaged 
counsel, who had carried their case to the supreme court, 
where it was still pending. No decision had been reached. 
The friends of the missionaries advised them to yield to the 
laws of the State, and request a pardon from the governor. 

16. Accordingly they wrote a letter to the governor, inform- 
ing him that they had given orders for the case in the su- 
preme court to be stopped, that they acknowledged the 
authority of Georgia, and desired to be released. In the let- 



1833.] ADMINISTRATION OF GILMER. 213 

ter they said, ' ' We have not been led to the adoption of this 
measure by any change of views in regard to the principles 
upon which we have acted, or by any doubt of the justice of 
our cause, or of our perfect right to a legal discharge." The 
governor declared that so long as they held such opinions, 
they might stay in prison. Upon being informed of the re- 
ception of this letter, they wrote another asking pardon for the 
offense they had given, declaring that nothing could be fur- 
ther from their purpose than to offer an indignity to the State. 
The governor expressed himself as satisfied, and sent an 
order for the release of the missionaries to the keeper of the 
penitentiary, January 14, 1833. The missionaries were 
released and the case ended. 




:14 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [183] 




CHAPTER XLIII: 

1831—1833. 

Lumpkin Elected Governor, — Survey of Cherokee Lands. — Penitentiary and 
Jail at Milledgeville Burned.— "Medical College."— Tariff Excitement.— 
Nullification Act. — Action of Georgia.— Milledgeville Convention. — ^Jack- 
son Re-elected President of United States. — South Carolina. — Clay's 
Compromise. — Forsyth. 

N the fall of 1831 another election of governor took 
place. The two political parties known as the 
''Troup" and "Clarke" were still preserved. Gov- 
^ ernor Gilmer consented to run for a second term as 
the candidate of the Troup party. Wilson Lumpkin 
led the Clarke party. The contest resulted in Lumpkin's 
election. 

2. Governor Lumpkin was born in Virginia in 1783. He 
was brought to Wilkes County when he was one year old. 
His means of education being limited, he received no further 
instruction than that afforded by a common country school. 
When fourteen years of age he assisted his father in copying, 
writing, and arranging the documents of Oglethorpe County 
superior court, and thus became fond of law studies and ac- 
quainted with members of the bar. When he became twenty- 
one years of age he represented Oglethorpe County in the 
State legislature. He was afterward sent to Congress both 
as representative and senator. Governor Lumpkin also 
made himself an accomplished engineer, and was employed 
to run the boundary line between Georgia and Florida. In 
many offices he had served the State well, and deserved this 
mark of confidence. 

3, When the legislature met in 1831, Governor Lumpkin 



1 83 1 . ] ADMINISTRA TION OF L UMPKIN. 2 1 5 

was requested to express his views in regard to the expedi- 
ency of surveying and occupying the Cherokee territory. 
He repHed in a communication recommending both the sur- 
vey and occupancy of the lands as soon as practicable. But 
that after the survey had been made the State should delay 
occupancy with the hope that wiser counsels might prevail 
among the Indians, and the good order and peace of the na- 
tion be undisturbed. The legislature authorized the survey, 
and Governor Lumpkin ordered it to be made in April, 
1 83 1. Much excitement and opposition arose, but the sur- 
vey was accomplished. 

4. May 2, 1 83 1, the penitentiary and jail at Milledgeville 
were burned. It was thought that they were set on fire by a 
convict who had attempted a few days before to escape and 
had been punished for it. The loss was about one hundred 
and sixty thousand dollars. Only one of the convicts es- 
caped. Temporary arrangements were soon made to accom- 
modate the inmates until the buildings could be rebuilt. 

5. In 1830 the legislature chartered the medical college of 
Georgia, situated at Augusta. The faculty consisted of Drs. 
George M. Newton, L. A. Dugas, Alexander Means, Paul 
F. Eve, Joseph A. Eve, I. P. Garvin, H. F. Campbell, L. 
D. Ford, all physicians of eminence. The institution has 
contributed much to medical science, and is yet an honor 
and blessing to the State. It is now part of the State Uni- 
versity. 

6. The Union was, at this period, more than ever excited 
about the tariff question. Congress, in 1828 and 1832, had 
passed tariff acts imposing duties upon certain imports and 
exports, and several of the Southern States felt themselves 
aggrieved. South Carolina was the most violent in opposi- 
tion. The legislature of Georgia in December, 1831, passed 
a resolution declaring that it was ''Inexpedient, oppressive, 
unequal, and destructive to the great leading interests of the 



216 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1832. 

South, pecuniary and political." Other Southern States 
passed similar resolutions. 

7. The people of South Carolina met in convention, and 
adopted what was known as the Nullification Act. It de- 
clared first, That the tariff of 1828 was unconstitutional, and, 
therefore, null and void. Second, That the States should 
meet in convention and decide upon the constitutionality of 
the act. Third, That if the general government should per- 
sist in the oppressive measures the State of South Carolina 
would withdraw from the Union. This bold avowal and de- 
fiant attitude drew South Carolina into prominent notice. 

8. The proposition of South Carolina met with opposition 
in all the States, even in those which denounced the tariff 
act. Georgia was opposed to the oppressive tariff, but did 
not agree to the plan proposed by Carolina as a remedy of 
the evil. Nevertheless, a resolution of the legislature de- 
clared, "that the tariff legislation, founded on principles of 
protection, is contrary to the spirit of the Federal Constitu- 
tion, and that some measures should be devised to redress 
the grievances of the South." 

9. Soon after, a convention of delegates was held at Mil- 
ledgeville, November 12, 1832, to express the feeling of the 
State upon the subject under discussion. The convention 
was presided over by George R. Gilmer. Sixty-one counties 
were represented by one hundred and thirty-four delegates. 
The day after opening, John Forsyth raised a side issue, by 
introducing resolutions of inquiry into the authority and eligi- 
bility of some of the delegates. This gave rise to a debate 
of great warmth and acrimony, and resulted in fifty-three of 
the delegates leaving the convention. This left sixty-eight 
delegates, a minority of the counties being represented, but 
they continued in session, and at the end of five days framed 
a set of resolutions against the tariff bill. The convention 
adjourned to meet in July, 1833. The action of this con- 
vention was not looked upon favorably in the State, and res- 



1833.] ADMINISTRATION OF LUMPKIN, 217 

olutions were passed in the legislature characterizing its action 
as the work of a minority, and as unacceptable to the 
people. 

10. There was proposed in the House of Representatives, 
November 20, 1832, a plan of a Southern convention for 
all the anti tariff States. It proposed that the convention 
"shall take into consideration the tariff system of the general 
government, and devise and recommend the most effectual 
and proper modes of obtaining relief from the evils of that 
system." The resolutions were ordered to be printed, and 
sent to the several States for their consideration. 

11. A presidential election held in November, 1832, re- 
sulted in the re-election of Jackson, after severe opposition. 
He was opposed by Henry Clay, who was the candidate of 
the anti-administration, calling itself in this election the Na- 
tional Republican party. Jackson was the Democratic can- 
didate. 

12. South Carolina had resolved to withdraw from the 
Union, February 12, 1833, unless the protective policy should 
have been abandoned by that time. When Congress met in 
1832, President Jackson recommended that the tariff be 
lightened. Soon afterward he issued the famous proclama- 
tion against nullification. 

13. Virginia requested South Carolina to delay the threat- 
ened secession until March 4, 1833, in the hope of a fair 
settlement of the trouble. To this South Carolina consented. 
Henry Clay, of Kentucky, then proposed a compromise in 
Congress which was adopted, and the oppressive tariff policy 
was abandoned. South Carolina immediately repealed the 
nullification ordinance and peace was again restored. 

14. Henry Clay, on being told that he would lose the pres- 
idency by his course, made the great answer: "I would 
rather be right than be President." 

15. During this famous controversy the distinguished John 

19 



218 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1833. 



Forsyth, then a senator from Georgia, supported the force 
bill, the tariff laws, and opposed the Clay compromise. His 
course rendered him unpopular. The feeling was so great 
in Macon that the crowd made a rag man of the senator, and 
burnt him in effigy. A grand jury of one of the counties 
also censured him in their general presentiments, expressing 
their disapprobation of his conduct, and asking him to re- 
sign his seat. But the senator refused to resign. 




[S33.] ADMINISTRATION OF LUMPKIN, 219 




CHAPTER XLIV. 

1833—1835. 

Centennial of the State. — Lumpkin Re-elected Governor. — Troup Recom- 
mended for President of United States.— King Elected Senator.— Will- 
iam H. Crawford Dies. — " States Rights • and " Union " Parties. — 
Indian Troubles.— Ross and Ridge.— Indian Treaty.— Railroad Survey. 

HE centennial of the founding of Georgia occurred 
February 13, 1833. The. important day was cele- 
brated in many parts of the State in a suitable man- 
^ ner by public speeches and military parades. 

2. In October, the usual election for governor occurred. 
Governor Lumpkin was nominated by his friends of the 
Clarke or Union party for reelection. He was opposed by 
Joel Crawford, who belonged to the Troup or States Rights 
party. The election resulted in the choice of Governor 
Lumpkin by a majority of over two thousand votes. In his 
inaugural address, he uttered the following sentiment : ' ' He 
who would destroy the State sovereignty by consolidation, or 
the federal system by nullification is a traitor to liberty, and 
deserves the universal execration of mankind." 

3. Governor Lumpkin, in his message to the legislature of 
1833, informed them that the lottery for the distribution of 
the Cherokee lands had been held, and the act providing 
for the division of the territory into counties carried into 
effect. The legislature passed another act, more effectu- 
ally to provide for the government and protection of the 
Cherokees. 

4. It being near the time for an election of the President 
of the United States, the States Rights party of Georgia held 



220 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1834. 

a meeting, and recommended George M. Troup as a fit candi- 
date for the Presidency. The resolution declared "his zealous 
advocacy of and firm attachment to the principles of State 
Rights, designate him as the individual best calculated to pro- 
mote the republican doctrines." Governor Troup politely 
acknowledged this demonstration of attachment, which he 
knew was made more to honor him than with any hope 
of success. Governor Troup had resigned his position as 
Senator in 1833, which he had held for several years, and 
John P. King was elected in his place. 

5. September 15, 1834, William H. Crawford died in 
Elbert County, when on his way to hold a term of the 
superior court. Upon the death of Judge Dooly, in 1827, 
he succeeded to the position as judge of the Northern Cir- 
cuit, which office he held until his death, at the age of 
sixty-two years. His remains were carried to Woodlawn, 
his home, in Oglethorpe County. The State lost by his 
death one of its brightest lights and most illustrious sons. 

6. The two parties in Georgia which had been arrayed 
against each other under the names of Troup and Clarke, 
underwent a change this year. The Troup party changed 
its name to the States Rights party, the Clarke party became 
the Union party. The difference between them was chiefly 
in regard to the relation of the States to the general govern- 
ment. The States Rights party were jealous of the honor, 
power, and privileges of the State, while the Union party 
feared disunion as a remedy for political evils. In October 
of this year, 1834, the candidates of the Union party were 
elected to Congress by a majority of over four thousand 
votes. The prominent leader of the States Rights party was 
George R. Gilmer. 

7. The Cherokee Indians continued to be still troublesome. 
In March, 1834, Eh Hicks, son of William Hicks, an In- 
dian chief, and a vigilant protector of the whites along the 
border settlements, was shot by a band of savages. He was 



1835.] ADMINISTRATION OF LUMPKIN, 221 

an intelligent man, and advocated the removal of the In- 
dians west of the Mississippi. March 10, 1834, a smoke- 
house, the property of a white man, was broken open and 
robbed. Hicks, as usual, determined to punish the offenders 
if they were Indians. Having discovered their camp, he, 
with only two followers, went in pursuit. Coming upon the 
savages, the three 
were fired upon, 
and Hicks was shot 
and died two days 
later. 

8. During the 
year 1834, much 
trouble arose in the 
Cherokee territory. 
Acts of depredation 
were committed, 
and the whites kept 
in continual appre- 
hension. Several 
of the distinguished 
members of the na- 
tion, like Hicks, 
who were favorable to removal, were shot. Governor Lumpkin 
found it necessary to post additional troops along the frontier 
in order to preserve the peace. 

9. In February, 1835, the Cherokee nation sent two depu- 
tations to Washington City for the purpose of making a treaty. 
One deputation was headed by John Ross, opposed to emi- 
gration ; the other led by John Ridge, in its favor. The Ross 
party proposed to cede parts of Georgia, Alabama, and 
Tennessee to the general government for the sum of twenty 
million dollars. This proposition was rejected by the Senate. 
The Ridge party requested that a person be appointed to pro- 
pose some arrangements with the nation through the delega- 




222 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1836. 

tion. This request was granted, and Mr. Schermerhorn was 
appointed to meet with the Ridge party and ascertain what 
arrangements could be made. This being done, certain ar- 
rangements, which the Cherokee delegation were to submit 
to their people, were made. 

10. The Ross party violently objected to action with the 
Ridge party, and did their utmost to thwart it. Governor 
Carroll and Mr. Schermerhorn were appointed commissioners 
by the President of the United States, and met the Chero- 
kees at Running Waters in 1835. Schermerhorn, Ross, and 
Ridge made long addresses, in which a treaty was proposed 
and thoroughly discussed. No definite action was taken, 
however. Another meeting was appointed to be held at Red 
Clay, in October, 1835. By this time much angry conten- 
tion had arisen between the two parties. The meeting at 
Red Clay was held, and a conference between the two parties 
obtained. Resolutions were adopted by the Ridge party 
favoring the formation of a treaty at that meeting. These 
were opposed by the Ross party, who desired to send another 
delegation to Washington City. 

11. After much dispute no compromise could be made, 
and the Ross party withdrew from the meeting, and sent a 
delegation to Washington City. With the remaining chiefs 
the proposed treaty was readily made. It was signed at 
New Echota, December 21, 1835, ^^^ ratified by the Senate, 
December 29, 1835. 

12. The principal articles of this treaty were as follows: 
The Cherokee nation relinquish their claim to all lands east 
of the Mississippi River, in consideration of five million dol- 
lars. In return they were to receive a tract of seven million 
acres and a perpetual outlet west of the Mississippi River. 
This land was never to be included within any other State, and 
the United States shall protect the Cherokees from civil strife 
and foreign enemies. The Cherokees should be entitled to 
a representative in Congress, whenever so ordered by that 



1836.] ADMINISTRATION OF LUMPKIN. 223 



body. The government was to remove them to their homes, 
and subsist them for one year after their arrival. One hun- 
dred thousand dollars was to be spent annually for the benefit 
of the poorer classes of the nation, and the Cherokees to 
remove within two years after the ratification of the treaty. 
In February, 1836, John Ross and his party arrived in Wash- 
ington City, but Congress refusing to negotiate with them, 
they were obliged to accede to the terms of the treaty. 

13. In the summer and fall of 1834, an experimental 
survey, under Colonel Cruger, was made to test the possi- 
bility of a railroad from Macon to Savannah. The possibifity 
being ascertained, a charter was obtained in April, 1836, and 
the work begun. 




224 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1835. 




CHAPTER XLV. 

1835—1839. 

Schley Elected Governor. — Dispute with Tennessee.— Seminole War. — 
Creek War. — Preparations. — Burning of Roanoke. — Sheppard's Planta- 
tion.— Chickasawhatchee.— Surrender of Creeks.— Transportation.— 
" Emory College." — " Mercer University." — " Georgia Female College." 
— Gilmer Elected Governor. — Van Buren President of United States. — 
Lumpkin Elected Senator.— Indians Surrender Territory.— Railroads.— 
Condition of State. 

^"^P^N the election for governor, in 1835, the opposing can- 
didates were WiUiam Schley and Charles Dougherty, 
iM//f^ :k |-hg former representing the Union party and the lat- 
ter the States Rights party. The election was again 
in favor of the Union party, William Schley being elected 
by a majority of two thousand five hundred and sev- 
enty-one votes. He was born in Maryland, December 10, 
1786, educated at Louisville and Augusta, in Georgia, and was 
admitted to the bar in 1812. In 1825 he was elected judge 
of the superior court of the Middle district, which position he 
held until 1828. In 1830 he represented Richmond County 
in the legislature, and in 1832 was elected member of Con- 
gress. He was a patriotic man and an able lawyer. 

2. Soon after his election he was called on to settle a dis- 
pute which had arisen between Georgia and Tennessee in 
regard to the arrest of John Ross and John Howard Payne by 
the Georgia Guards on the Tennessee River. Payne was 
suspected of writing letters unfavorable to the policy of the 
government. Accordingly he was arrested with John Ross, 
at the residence of the latter in Tennessee, and detained for 
some time in confinement. This arrest and imprisonment 



1836.] ADMINISTRATION OF SCHLEY. 225 

gave great offense to the inhabitants of Tennessee. The gov- 
ernor of Tennessee addressed a letter to the governor of 
Georgia in regard to the matter. Governor Schley immedi- 
ately replied, regretting the occurrence, and stating that the 
officers were unauthorized in their action, and that Payne and 
Ross should be released, which was done. 

3. In the latter part of 1835 a war broke out with the Sem- 
inole Indians in Florida. The war was caused by an attempt 
of the government to remove them west of the Mississippi 
River. Wiley Thompson, United States agent to the tribe, 
and Major Dale, with one hundred men, were massacred, and 
the whole country as far as St. Augustine ravaged by the In- 
dians. February 7, 1837, General Winfield Scott assumed 
command of the United States forces, and prosecuted the 
war vigorously for several months. In 1837, Osceola, the 
Seminole Chief, came to the American camp to surrender. 
He was seized, conveyed to Charleston, and confined in 
Fort Moultrie, where he died in 1838. 

4. The Creeks in Alabama had heard of the Seminole war, 
and resolved to start another struggle in Georgia. Great 
numbers of them assembled and commenced hostilies by ter- 
rible murders along the Chattahoochee River, both in Geor- 
gia and Alabama, in May and June of 1836. The appear- 
ance of such a large number of painted savages produced 
great alarm in the border settlement, and induced many to 
forsake their homes and fly to more populous regions. Num- 
bers from the Georgia and Alabama frontier flocked to Colum- 
bus, Milledgeville, and Augusta. The Indians were very 
cruel, and pursued the refugees and murdered them on the 
road ruthlessly. 

5. Governor Schley immediately took the field in person, 
and established his head-quarters at Columbus. Volunteer 
companies were formed in all parts of the State, and every 
preparation made to check the invaders. Efforts were made 
to intercept any body of Indians that might attempt to join 



226 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1836. 

the Seminoles in Florida. General Scott, who was placed in 
command of the Creek war, together with Major Jesup, came 
to Columbus, organized troops and started for the Creek nation. 
After several skirmishes, many of the Creeks gave themselves 
up to General Scott, and desired peace. They were a miser- 
able, unhappy set of beings, half naked and half starved. 
They were detained a while at Fort Mitchell, and about one 
thousand six hundred of them were sent to Arkansas, west 
of the Mississippi River. They went on foot to Montgomery, 
then by steamer to New Orleans. 

6. It was designed to remove the remainder as soon as they 
could be forced to surrender. But many still defied the au- 
thority of the State, and continued the war. In the night of 
May 15, 1836, a party of Creek Indians, about three hundred 
in number, made an attack upon Roanoke, a small village on 
the Chattahoochee River, in Stewart County. The citizens 
were taken by surprise, many of them having gone to sleep. 
Their first warning was the firing of the guns and the yells of 
the savages. Springing to their arms, the men tried to op- 
pose the Indians, but finding their numbers so large, were 
forced to retreat. Nine whites and three blacks were killed, 
and the rest escaped. The Indians then burned the town to 
ashes. The same party of Indians attacked the boat Georgiaft 
while lying at anchor near Roanoke. The boat was soon set 
on fire and burned, and not a soul on deck escaped except 
the engineer. An attack was also made on the boat Hype- 
rion while ascending the river, and several killed. The 
crew ran the boat ashore, and fled, leaving the vessel to the 
Indians. 

7. The same party of Indians were soon after attacked at 
Sheppard's plantation by a party of white men under Captain 
Garmany and Major Jernigan. The battle which ensued 
was one of the most serious of the war. Captain Garmany 
killed three Indians with his own hands, and was wounded 
in the thigh by another. The Indian who had wounded him 



1836.] ADMINISTRATION OF SCHLEY. 227 



drew a knife and rushed upon the brave captain, who had 
fallen to the ground. Drawing his pistol he waited until the 
Indian was close at hand, and firing, killed the savage just in 
time to prevent the knife from piercing his breast. The sav- 
ages, who greatly outnumbered the whites, forced them to re- 
treat, with many of their command slain. The Indians then 
marched down the banks of the Chattahoochee, burned sev- 
eral villages, and plundered the country in their way. 

8. After committing many depredations they attempted to 
join the Seminoles in Florida. They marched into Baker 
County, murdered several families, and mangled their bodies 
terribly. The Indians, to the number of three hundred war- 
riors, then penetrated the Chickasawhatchee swamp, and for- 
tified themselves upon an island in the center. The militia of 
that county waited for Captain Jernigan and Captain Holmes 
with their companies, and a company of cavalry from Bibb 
County. The whole was put under command of Colonel A. 
A. Beall, and with a force of five hundred men it was de- 
termined to drive the enemy from the swamp, where they had 
been for more than a week. A force of two hundred was 
stationed on the outskirts of the swamp to prevent an escape. 
The remainder entered the swamp, waded through water and 
mud waist deep, and reached the Indian camp. Here a des- 
perate battle ensued for more than a half hour, but the 
Indians were driven from the island, leaving many dead war- 
riors, together with their horses and plunder. Only fourteen 
of the Georgia troops were wounded, and but one died. This 
defeat prevented the junction with the Seminoles in Florida, 
who continued to give the government trouble. 

9. Another engagement occurred July 27, 1836, at Echo- 
wanotchaway swamp, between Major Jernigan's command 
and the Indians, in which the latter suffered another defeat. 
Another party of Indians, on their way to Florida, were at- 
tacked in Thomas County by Captain Sharpe, and twenty-two 
of them killed and the rest of them put to flight. Such crush- 



228 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1836. 

ing defeats induced the principal chiefs to abandon so unprofit- 
able a war, and sue for peace. Many of them came to the 
forts and surrendered themselves. They were provided for, 
and as soon as practicable were sent to the Indian Territory 
west of the Mississippi River, until not a vestige of the Creek 
tribe remained in the State. 

10. The cause of education was now discussed with new 
interest throughout the State. In 1837 Emory College was 
founded. It is situated in the beautiful village of Oxford, 
Newton County, and was named in honor of Bishop Emory 
of the Methodist church. Its first president was Rev. Ig- 
natius A. Few, LL. D., a native of Columbia Count)^ 

11. The founding of Emory College by the Methodists 
was soon followed by the founding of Mercer University by 
the Baptists. In 1838 it received a charter from the legis- 
lature, with the title of Mercer University, in honor of Jesse 
Mercer. It was at first situated at Penfield, in Greene 
County, but was afterward moved to Macon, where it be- 
came a flourishing institution of learning. 

12. The Georgia Female College at Macon, projected in 

1836, went into operation in January, 1339. Ninety young 
ladies entered their names, which number was increased to 
one hundred and sixty-eight during the session. In the first 
years of its existence it was tendered to the Georgia Meth- 
odist Conference, and accepted. Bishop George F. Pierce 
was the first president and professor of English literature. 
Its name has been changed to Wesleyan Female College, and 
the institution is the oldest chartered female college in the 
world. 

13. The election of governor again occurred in October, 

1837. Governor Schley was a candidate for reelection. He 
was opposed by George R. Gilmer, who had once filled the 
executive chair. Governor Schley was still supported by the 



1838.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF GILMER. 



229 



Union party, and George R. Gilmer by the States Rights 
party. The contest resulted in the election of George R. 
Gilmer by a majority of seven hundred and sixty-two votes, 
and in November he was duly inaugurated. At the presi- 
dential election in this year, 1836, Martin Van Buren was 
elected and inaugurated 
March 4, 1837. He was 
the Democratic candi- 
date, and defeated the 
candidates of the divided 
Whigs. His inaugura- 
tion was followed by a 
period of financial dis- 
tress from 1837 on for 
several years, in which 
Georgia became deeply 
involved. 

14r. In 1837, Hon. 
John P. King resigned 
his seat as United States 
Senator. Wilson Lump- 
kin was elected Novem- 
ber 2 2d to succeed him, 
defeating Judge Berrien. 

15. May 24, 1838, by the treaty, the State of Georgia was 
to take possession of the territory ceded by the Cherokee 
Indians. The mihtary were called out, and General Scott put 
in command. May iSth a force had arrived at New Echota, 
and on the 24th they took up line of march for the Chero- 
kee country to collect the Indians. The collecting of the 
Indians continued until June 3, 1838, when one thousand 
five hundred and sixty Cherokees started for the Ross Land- 
ing on the Tennessee River, under the command of Captain 
Stell. June loth they reached the Landing, and were taken 
in charge by other troops. The Georgia troops returned 

20 




George R. Gilmer. 



230 



STUDENTS HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1839. 



home, and were dismissed from the service of the United 
States. The collecting of the Indians continued quietly and 
orderly, and by the end of June the whole nation had been 
gathered into the camps. 

16. Waiting until the heat of summer was over, fourteen 

thousand started over-land, in September, for the country 




John Ridge. 

west of the Mississippi. The best arrangements had been 
made for their comfort and health; nevertheless, from the 
time the journey began until it was completed nearly four 
thousand of the Indians died. 

17. June 22, 1839, Major Ridge, John Ridge, his son, and 
Elias Bondinot were waylaid and murdered. These had 
taken an active part in the treaty of removal, and it was 
thought fell by the hands of their enemies. The Cherokee 



1839-] ADMINISTRATION OF GILMER. 231 

and Creek Indians have ever since continued to live west 
of the Mississippi River in the Indian Territory, under the 
care and protection of the government. 

18. A cotton convention was held in Macon, October, 
1839, for the purpose of promoting the cultivation and sale 
of the great staple. Delegates were present from Georgia, 
Alabama, and Florida. The subject was fully discussed, and 
the convention was able to publish valuable information con- 




cerning the cultivation and shipping of cotton. This was 
one of a series of useful agricultural conventions. 

19. There was also now a rapid extension of railroads. 
The first railroad act was passed in 1831, authorizing a turn- 
pike or railroad from Augusta to Eatenton, and thence west 
to the Chattahoochee River. But this was repealed in 1833, 
and the Georgia Railroad Company was incorporated, which 
was now engaged in building the road. A portion of the 
road was used in 1837. 

20. The Central Railroad, from Savannah to Macon, first 
chartered in 1833 as the Central Railroad and Canal, was in 
process of construction. About one hundred miles of the 
track was laid. 

21. Already the State was looking to communication by 
Tennessee with the north-west, and passed in 1836 an act re- 
citing that a State work *' should be done with State funds," 



232 STUDENT * S HISTOR V OF GEORGIA. [1840. 

in building a railroad from Tennessee to the Chattahoochee 
River. This was the beginning of the Western and Atlantic 
Railroad. 

22. Another line was projected in 1833, ^^ the Monroe 
Railroad, from Macon to Forsyth, and was now being built. 
It was afterward extended to Atlanta under the charter of 
the Macon and Western Railroad. 

23. Besides these main lines there were other charters 
granted by the legislature, and the State was fully committed 
to the new enterprise of railroad transportation which was 
then agitating the whole country. 

24. In 1840 there were six hundred and thirty-six miles of 
railroad graded in Georgia, and it is a gratifying fact that at 
this time the State led all parts of the Union in railroad 
building. 

25. The value of crops in 1840 was thirty million dollars. 
The State produced one million eight hundred thousand 
bushels of wheat, about the same of oats, and twenty million 
bushels of corn. The production of cotton had also largely 
increased since 1830. Manufacturing had produced this year 
four million dollars on an invested capital of three million 
dollars. The exports of 1840 were nearly seven million 
dollars, and the imports about a half million. 

26. In education, the State was beginning to struggle after 
a better system. Academies to the number of one hundred 
and seventy-six had been built by State aid, and reported 
nearly eight thousand pupils. Private schools were also in 
vogue, but the methods of education were crude. 

27. The survey of the State in the end of this decade shows 
a population of six hundred and ninety-one thousand three 
hundred and ninety-two, of which two hundred and eighty 
thousand nine hundred and forty-four were slaves. Savan- 
nah had twelve thousand, Augusta eight thousand, Macon 
three thousand five hundred, Columbus four thousand. 



1840.] ADMINISTRATION OF GIIMER. 233 

28. Immigration was slowly and steadily increasing the 
numbers. South-western Georgia, which the Creeks had oc- 
cupied until recently, was attracting hundreds of enterpris- 
ing settlers. The Cherokee country in the northern part of 
the State was now open to settlement, and many thrifty 
people were moving in from Virginia, Carolina, and else- 
where. 

29. Notwithstanding the financial pressure, there were 
many new towns growing up in the old and new counties, 
where merchandise was exchanged for the produce of the 
farms. Churches and school-houses were built in every set- 
tlement, although often of logs, and many signs of thrift ap- 
peared. 

30. Generally, the Georgians in all the new settlements, 
as well as the old, were industrious, intelligent people, living 
simply, but bountifully, on their own productions, given to 
hospitality, and full of public spirit. Many of them were 
the young descendants of excellent families in older States, 
who came into Georgia with the purpose of making their 
fortunes. The people generally had been sharpened in their 
wits by the struggles through which they had passed, not 
only to win their State from the Indians, but also to defend it 
from the improper interference of the general government. 

31. Public political discussions gave these early settlers of 
Georgia extensive knowledge of their own State and of the 
Union, not alone as to their history, but also of the great 
principles of government. As an ambitious, thrifty, aggress- 
ive people, they pushed their enterprises with energy; and 
taking into consideration that Georgia was the youngest of 
the thirteen States which had formed the Union, and had la- 
bored with immense disadvantage, it now occupied, at this 
period, which is a proper close of the second great era of 
its history, a most honorable and promising position. 

END OF PART SECOND. 



PART THIRD. 



CHAPTER XLVL 

1839—1841. 




McDonald Elected Governor.— Financial Distress.— Bank Suspension.— 
Relief Measures.— Seminole Raid.— Harrison Elected President. — Ber- 
rien Elected Senator.— President Harrison Dies and Tyler Becomes 
President. 

HEN the year 1839 closed, the entire territory of 
Georgia was in possession of the State. The final 
removal of the Indians gave the State undisputed 
jurisdiction of all its extensive domain, and opened 
to the Georgians another era of progress. A great evil was 
thus removed, and although the shadow of financial strin- 
gency rested on the people, they were grateful for relief from 
the horrors of savage war. 

2. The administration of Governor Charles J. McDonald 
began with this period. He was elected in 1839 by the 
Union party, over his worthy and distinguished opponent, 
Charles Dougherty, the candidate of the States Rights 
party. 

3. Governor McDonald was born in South Carolina, and 
moved into this State where he practiced law. He was elected 
solicitor-general of the Flint circuit, and afterward was elected 
judge of the same circuit. He presided in the superior courts 
of this wild, newly settled region, with mildness, firmness, 
and marked ability. In 1830 he represented Bibb County in 

the legislature, from 1834 to 1837 he served as State sena- 

(234) 



i839-] ADMINISTRATION OF M' DONALD. 235 

tor, and now, in November, 1839, he was inaugurated gover- 
nor of Georgia. 

4. The position of the new governor was trying on account 
of the pressure in money affairs. The first attention of his 
administration was therefore necessarily directed to measures 
of reUef. The entire Union was suffering the same distress, 
and thus both the gen- 
eral and the State gov- 
ernments were concerned 
in devising means to re- 
lieve the people. The 
spirit of speculation had 
for several years pressed 
all business beyond safe 
limits. Credit had been 
abused until the people 
were burdened by their 
debts, and even the 
credit of the State itself 
was in peril. To give 
the proper relief to the 
debtors without injustice 
to creditors was difficult. 
To sustain the State's 

Charles J. McDonald. 

credit, and maintain pub- 
lic confidence in the ability of the government to go 
safely through such commercial storms, was of the greatest 
importance. 

5. The President of the United States had already called 
an extra session of Congress to provide for the exigency 
of the United States in the general suspension of the banks. 
Congress passed an act providing a scheme, called the sub- 
treasury system, and authorizing the issue of ten million dol- 
lars in treasury notes. Other minor measures of reHef were 
also adopted. 




236 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1840. 

6. The Georgia banks had also suspended specie payments, 
like those of other States, producing painful embarrassments 
by the great depreciation of their bills. The legislature of 
1839 enacted as a measure of relief that the banks in suspension 
should not bring suits on any notes, bonds, or other eviden- 
ces of debt held by them. Other laws were passed designed 
to afford relief, but the stringency still continued into the suc- 
ceeding years. The price of cotton dropped to four or five 
cents per pound, while many articles necessary to the planter 
rose in price. Debtors were unable to meet their obligations. 
The mercantile and agricultural classes suffered alike. There 
was a general feeling against the banks as the cause of the 
distress, and hence the legislation of the times was di- 
rected against them. In 1840, the legislature passed a bill 
requiring the banks to resume specie payments by February, 
1 84 1, and on failure the governor was required to institute 
proceedings for the forfeiture of their charter. 

7, In August, 1840, an Indian raid from the Seminoles of 
Florida was made into the southern border counties of the 
State. This was the only direction from which any Indian 
troubles could now arise, and the general government was 
seeking to reduce these Seminoles to subjection. The sav- 
age marauders who thus invaded Georgia began at once to 
murder, burn and plunder. Governor McDonald despatched 
a messenger to the secretary of war, who ordered forces to 
the defense of these counties. Meanwhile the governor im- 
mediately hurried General Nelson forward with a volunteer 
force rapidly collected, who scoured the country, but the In- 
dians had fled back into the Florida sw^amps. General Nel- 
son left four companies under Captains Clarke, Tracy, Sweat, 
and Jernigan, to defend the exposed inhabitants until the ar- 
rival of the United States troops. These murderous forays 
were frequent. The Indians, dashing in to burn and plunder, 
would retreat into the swamps where they were not easily 
reached. After a long while, the trouble was removed by the 
final utter defeat of the Seminole tribe. 



1840.] ADMINISTRATION OF M' DONALD. 237 

8. The presidential election of 1840 occurred in the midst 
of the financial gloom which hung over the country. Presi- 
dent Van Buren was nominated by the Democratic party for 
reelection, and William Henry Harrison, of Ohio, was chosen 
as the candidate of the Whigs. Van Buren' s administration 
had been approved by a special resolution of the legislature, 
in which a eulogy was also pronounced on John Forsyth, 
"the favorite son of Georgia," and recommending him for 
the Vice-Presidency. But the troubles of the times were laid 
by the Whigs on the administration, and Van Buren entered 
the canvass with this disadvantage. 

9. In Georgia the old Clark party, afterward the Union 
party, and now the Democratic party, supported Van Buren. 
The Troup party, which was afterward the States Rights 
party, and now the Whig party, favored Harrison. The con- 
test was warm, and attended with lively discussions by public 
speakers before great crowds. The general canvass was con- 
ducted throughout the State with great enthusiasm, particularly 
by the Whigs, whose candidate was popular as an Indian fighter 
and a man of the people. The election came on and the 
Whigs carried the State for Harrison by a majority of eight 
thousand votes. He also secured a large majority of the 
other States, and was elected and inaugurated President of 
the United States, with John Tyler, of Virginia, for Vice- 
President. 

10. The legislature of 1840 elected Berrien Senator to suc- 
ceed Wilson Lumpkin, whose term would soon expire. Al- 
fred Cuthbert was the other Senator. Among the new rep- 
resentatives to Congress were Walter T. Colquitt, Thomas 
Butler King, and Lott Warren. 

11. President Harrison was inaugurated March 4, 1841, 
with the usual solemnities, but died just one month afterward 
to the profound grief of the whole country. Public meetings 
were held to express popular feehng. In Savannah a great 
gathering of citizens, over which Judge Wayne presided, 



238 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1841. 

voiced in resolutions, and in the eulogy pronounced by the 
orator of the occasion, the sorrow of Georgia. 

12. John Tyler, the Vice-President, became the successor 
of the deceased President, and took the customary oath of 
office. Almost immediately after his accession he became 
separated from the main body of the Whig party by his veto 
of the United States Bank bill, and the tariff bills, which were 
party measures. 




1841.] ADMINISTRATION OF M' DONALD. 239 




CHAPTER XLVII. 

1841—1842. 

McDonald Re-elected Governor.— Financial Relief Measures.— Supreme 
Court Recommended. — Further Financial Stringency. — McDonald Closes 
the Treasury. — Trouble with Senator Berrien. — Opening of Lunatic 
Asylum.— Discovery of Anaesthesia.— Texas War.— Massacre of Fan- 
nin. — Annexation of Texas. 

HE biennial election of governor occurring again in Oc- 
tober, 1 84 1, McDonald was reelected over William C. 
Dawson, the able and popular candidate of the Whig 
party. When the legislature met in November, the 
vexed question of the depressed finances was of chief 
importance. As a measure of relief the governor recom- 
mended the estabhshment of a new State bank, in Savannah, 
with several branches, to supersede the existing local banks 
as their charters should expire. The message argued that 
this measure would give all parts of the State the same cur- 
rency, and that the new bank would be clothed with power 
to remove the .stringency in money matters by safe issues 
of sufficient bills for all purposes of business. But many of 
the banks had already resumed specie payments, in order to 
meet the requirements of previous legislation and save their 
charters, and as there was some prospect of better times no 
measures of effective relief were agreed to. 

2. Governor McDonald earnestly pressed the legislature 
to establish the supreme court in order to perfect the judicial 
system of the State. The constitution required the organiza- 
tion of such a court of appeals from the superior courts, but 
the important measure had not been devised. The governor 
now urged immediate legislation on the subject, and said: 
*'The decisions of the circuit judge are final and irreversible 



240 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1842. 

except at his will. His power in cases involving the life, 
property, and liberty of the citizen is absolute and appalling; 
and, but that we have been so long accustomed to its exer- 
cise by a single individual, it would not be tolerated for a 
day." It is worthy of mention that these great powers were 
rarely abused by the judges of the superior courts. They 
were generally men of legal ability, and executed the duties 
of the bench with wisdom, justice, and moderation. 

3. Another year of depression passed, and the legislature, 
on meeting again in November, 1842, was confronted by the 
continued difficulties of the situation. The governor made 
an elaborate statement of public affairs, and urged wise legis- 
lation to give relief. Any increase of the taxes had been 
avoided by borrowing funds from the Central bank to pay 
the interest on the public debt, and to meet other obliga- 
tions. 

4. Th State had drawn upon the Central bank for over 
two and a quarter millions, and these heavy drafts had de- 
preciated its bills and injured its business. The State suf- 
fered by this depreciation in its revenues, as it received these 
bills at full value in payment of taxes, and paid them out 
again at their depreciated value. The governor, therefore, rec- 
ommended that the State cease to borrow from the bank, and 
that the expenses of the government be met by direct taxes, 
a part of which should be paid in specie. The proposition 
met with strong opposition, and notwithstanding the urgency, 
the legislation took no decided action. Even a bill to in- 
crease the taxes of the previous year twenty-five per cent, 
was lost, and the legislature was about to adjourn without 
providing for the current expenses. 

5. Governor McDonald, in this emergency, issued an order 
to the treasurer to suspend all payments, except on actual ap- 
propriations and by legal warrants, and gave as his reason 
that the legislature was about to adjourn, and leave an empty 
treasury. He notified the legislature that the general appro- 



1 842 . ] AD MINIS TRA TION OF M'D ON AID. 241 

priation for support of the government, and the amount 
necessary to meet the expenses of protecting the Florida 
frontier exceeded the sum in the treasury. The payment 
of the interest on the pubhc debt was also unprovided for, 
and the credit of the State was threatened with ruin. 

6. These representations produced great excitement. The 
legislature, finding the treasury closed against themselves, de- 
nounced the governor mercilessly. But he was inflexible, 
and the legislature finally passed a proper appropriation bill, 
under which the State's finances were so well administrated 
that the governor reported a greatly improved state of affairs 
on the meeting of the next legislature a year afterward. 

7. The right of the State legislature to instruct the senators 
of the State in Congress, was the subject of an exciting dis- 
cussion for several years, growing out of certain votes of 
Senator Berrien. The Senator incurred the displeasure of 
many on account of his course on the Bankrupt Bill, and by 
his support of the National Bank and the Land Distribution 
Bill. In 1 84 1, a resolution of censure was passed by a 
majority vote of the legislature, and he was instructed to 
reverse his votes. In 1842, the legislature again declared 
that Senator Berrien did not represent the views of this State, 
and requested him to resign. This resolution called forth 
an address from Berrien to the people of Georgia, in which 
he reviewed with great ability his own course and that of the 
legislature. In 1843, the Whigs gained the ascendency, and 
the legislature of that year passed eulogistic resolutions ex- 
tolling Senator Berrien as deserving the continued confidence 
of the people of Georgia, whose love and respect he had 
gained by his useful services. 

8. Among the important events of 1842, the opening of the 
lunatic asylum is worthy of notice. This benevolent institu- 
tion was established by act of 1837, and the buildings were 
ready in October of this year. The first patient was received 
in December. The increase of inmates continued until now 

21 



242 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1842. 

(1883) there are over a thousand of these unfortunates 
provided for. The asylum is for both white and colored 
lunatics. 

9. This year is also marked by the discovery by Dr. Craw- 
ford W. Long, a Georgian, of the anaesthic power of sul- 
phuric ether. He gave his great discovery publicity for the 
benefit of all human sufferers. After many years, his right 
to the honor was duly recognized by his State, and his por- 
trait was placed on the walls of the representative chamber. 

10. Great interest was felt in Georgia concerning the an- 
nexation of Texas. Texas was part of the new Mexican Re- 
public as a province, but with guarantees of the Mexican 
Congress that it should be made a Mexican State. In 1832, 
Santa Anna, who had been elected President of Mexico, 
declared himself Dictator, and refused to Texas a State con- 
stitution. The people of Texas therefore revolted, and raising 
an army, put General Sam Houston in command. The State 
was soon invaded by the Mexicans, and many cruel battles 
followed. Among the noted barbarities of the Mexican com- 
manders, was the massacre of Fannin's men. Colonel Fannin 
was a Georgian, who had gone to Texas to aid in its defense, 
h^ing under him a fine company made up in his native 
State. In March, 1836, at Golead, in Texas, he was sur- 
rounded and overpowered by the army of Santa Anna, and 
surrendered on the stipulation that he and his men should 
be permitted to depart at once for the United States unmo- 
lested. But when the arms were given up, the treacherous 
Mexican caused the entire three hundred men to be shot. 
This tragic murder thrilled all Georgia, and caused intense 
active sympathy for Texas to prevail. A month after this 
massacre, Houston defeated Santa Anna at San Jacinto, and 
made a treaty of peace, after which the independence of 
Texas was formally recognized by the United States. 

11. Texas then, in 1837, sought to be annexed to the 
United States, and its admission into the Union became a 



1842.] ADMINISTRATION OF M' DONALD. 243 

great national question. The Tyler treaty of annexation, 
made in March, 1844, was rejected by the United States 
Senate, and the question was thrown upon the country at 
large, when it became the great feature in the presidential 
canvass. Georgia favored the annexation, and gave its vote 
to Polk, the presidental candidate, who was in favor of ad- 
mitting Texas into the Union. In 1845, Texas was formally 
annexed to the United States, and then admitted as a State 
into the Union. 




244 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1843. 




CHAPTER XLVIII. 

1843-1846. 

Crawford Elected Governor. — Financial Improvement. — Congressional 
Election.— Polk Elected President of United States.— Completion of 
Georgia Railroad. — Crawford Re-elected. — Organization of Supreme 
Court.— Mexican War.— Georgia Heroes.— Treaty of Peace. 

' %^M 

HE Whig party held its gubernatorial convention in 

June, 1843, 3.nd sent ten delegates to the national 
Whig convention, to be held in Baltimore, May, 
844. These delegates were instructed to vote for 
Henry Clay as the Whig nominee for the Presidency, 
and to urge the name of Berrien for the Vice-Presi- 
dency. The convention also nominated George W. Crawford 
for the office of Governor. 

2. The Democratic party nominated Mark A. Cooper, and 
the election resulted in the choice of Crawford. Governor 
Crawford was the son of Peter Crawford, and born in Co- 
lumbia County, December 22, 1798. He graduated at Prince- 
ton College, studied law, and, being admitted to the bar in 
1822, began practice in Augusta. He quickly attracted atten- 
tion, was elected solicitor-general, and afterward represented 
Richmond County in the legislature for several years. His 
accession to the office of governor occurred at a time when 
the State was just emerging from a long period of financial 
depression. 

3. His message to the legislature in November, 1844, was 
largely occupied with discussion of the State's finances. The 
condition of the banks was improving. The taxes raised 



[844. 



ADMINISTRATION OF CRAWFORD. 



245 



under existing laws were furnishing means to pay the State's 
current expenses, as well as to pay the interest on the public 
debt. The railroads were mentioned in the message as pro- 
gressing, and the Western and Adantic railroad, being the 
property of the State, was commended to public confidence. 

4. The legislature passed an important bill, reducing the 
number of Senators to forty-seven, elected from senatorial dis- 
tricts; and of representa- 
tives, to one hundred 
and thirty, elected from 
the counties. 

5. The administration 
of Governor Crawford 
continued to be finan- 
cially successful. The 
committee appointed by 
the legislature to exam- 
ine the treasury and pub- 
lic debt, reported that 
the governor was rapidly 
reducing the debt of the 
State, and was paying 
the interest on the un 
paid bonds. 

6. The congressional 
election of 1844 resulted 
in the election of the following members from Georgia, viz: 
King, Poe, Stephens, and Toombs, as Whigs; with Jones, 
Haralson, Lumpkin, and Cobb, as Democrats. The presi- 
dential election the same time resulted in choice of James K. 
Polk, who defeated Henry Clay. Polk carried Georgia by a 
majority of two thousand votes. 

7. The Georgia Railroad was finished September, 1845, ^^^ 
the first train of passenger cars reached Atlanta from Augusta 




George 'W. Crawford. 



246 



SIVDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1845. 



September 15th. The population of Atlanta was then 

scarcely five hundred. 

8. Governor Crawford was elected for the second term 

in 1845, <^ver A. H. McAllister, after a warm canvass. 

Senator Berrien having resigned his office on account of the 

pubHc censure of his votes, the legislature reelected him as 

a mark of confidence in 
his wisdom and patriot- 
ism. But the most im- 
portant measure of the 
year was the complete 
organization of the su- 
preme court. The elec- 
tion for judges was by 
the legislature, and they 
chose Joseph Henry 
Lumpkin, chief justice, 
with Eugenius Nesbet 
and Hiram Warner asso- 
ciate justices. The three 
were distinguished jur- 
ists, highly worthy of 
their exalted station. 




Joseph H. Lumpkin, 



9. James K. Polk was 
inaugurated President of 
the United States, March 4, 1845. His administration was 
signalized at once by the admission of Texas and the Mex- 
ican war. Mexico disputed the claim of Texas to be inde- 
pendent, and prepared for war when the annexation meas- 
ures were adopted. The United States stationed troops on 
the Texas frontier, under command of General Zachary Tay- 
lor, and these soon came in collision with the Mexican forces. 
In May, war was formally declared by the United States 
against Mexico, and volunteers were called for from all the 
states. In May 1846, the war department, at Washington 



1847.] MEXICAN WAR, 247 



City, called on Georgia for a regiment of infantry volunteers 
to serve twelve months. A prompt and enthusiastic response 
was made, and a greater force tendered than the government 
had demanded. 

10. June 20, 1846, ten companies from various parts of 
the State met at Columbus and organized into a regiment. 
Henry R. Jackson, of Savannah, was chosen Colonel. The 
regiment proceeded immediately to Mexico, and remained for 
twelve months. During that time, however, they had no en- 
counter with the enemy, but did effective service in detach- 
ments. The regiment was honorably dismissed after the 
twelve months had expired, and the soldiers returned, having 
lost one hundred and forty-five of their number by sickness. 
The legislature of 1847 passed resolutions praising this regi- 
ment for their "manly and soldierly conduct," by which they 
had "maintained and indicated the honor and valor of 
Georgia." 

11. A company of regulars, under Captain Alexander Scott, 
was raised in Bibb County, and went to Mexico under com- 
mand of Lieutenant Prince. This company served under 
Captain Duncan L. Clinch until the close of the war. 

12. In the spring of 1847, another requisition for a batallion 
of infantry was made. Volunteers prompdy responded, and 
the command marched, in the fall, under Lieutenant-Colonel 
Isaac G. Seymour. In the summer of 1847 two batallions of 
mounted men were called for. A batallion, under command 
of Captain Loyall, of Newton County, tendered their serv- 
ices, and, being accepted, marched to Mexico. They were 
soon after followed by another battalion under Lieutenant- Col- 
onel Calhoun. 

13. Besides these volunteer corps from Georgia, many 
brave recruits went singly, and, enlisting in the regular United 
States army, did valiant service. Many yielded up their lives 
in the bloody battles of the war, among whom was Colonel 



248 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1847. 

James Mcintosh, a hero of the war of 181 2. He had gone 
into the army of the United States, had fought in several 
principal batdes, and was wounded at Palo Alto. This was 
followed by a succession of brilliant victories, by which he 
reached the very walls of the Mexican capital, where he fell, 
at the head of his command. The battle is known as that of 
El Molina del Rey. His remains were brought back to his 
native State. 

14. Captain Hardee, General William H. T. Walker, and 
Lieutenant William M. Gardner had distinguished themselves, 
and, in receiving the thanks of the Georgia legislature, were 
presented each an elegant sword. Captain Josiah Tatnall, of 
the United States Navy, acted with bravery at the siege and 
bombardment of Vera Cruz, while in command of the " Mos- 
quito Fleet." The legislature of Georgia likewise presented 
him a sword for the distinguished manner with which he upheld 
the honor of his State. General David E. Twiggs also dis- 
tinguished hiniself in many of the Mexican battles, and mer- 
ited the gratitude and thanks of his native State. All these, 
and many other Georgians, won the praise of the army and 
added luster to the name of their State. 

15. The war with Mexico was brought to an end by a suc- 
cession of brilliant victories, by which General Scott captured 
the City of Mexico, September 13, 1847, ^^^^ General Taylor 
defeated Santa Anna, gaining possession of all the northern 
province of Mexico. The treaty of peace was concluded Feb- 
ruary 2, 1848, by which the United States gained the whole 
territory of California, Utah, New Mexico, and Texas, for 
which Mexico received fifteen million dollars. 



1847.] ADMINISTRATION OF TOWNS. 249 



V, 




CHAPTER XLIX. 

1847—1850. 

Towns Elected Governor.— Completion of Western and Atlantic Railroad.— 
Dawson Elected Senator.— Taylor Elected President.— Towns Re-elected 
Governor.— Slavery Agitation.— Howell Cobb.— Towns' Message of 1849. 
— Death of Taylor.—" Omnibus Bill."— Milledgeville Convention.— 
" Georgia Platform." 

HE contest in 1847, for the office of governor, was 
between Duncan L. Clinch, nominated by the 
Whigs, and George W. Towns the Democratic can- 
didate. Towns was elected and inaugurated. He was 
born in Wilkes County, Georgia, and won distinction 
notwithstanding his bodily feebleness. He practiced 
law in Talbot County, which he also represented in the leg- 
islature. His district sent him to Congress twice. He now 
entered upon the high office of the State's governor. 

2. The State was recovering from its financial embarass- 
ment, and was showing signs of rapid improvement. The 
Western and Atlantic Railroad was completed within several 
miles of Chattanooga, and bringing prosperity to the section 
of the State through which it ran. 

3. When the legislature met in 1847, William C. Dawson 
was elected United States Senator for six years, beginning 
March, 1849. Advance was made in legislation by several 
acts. One of these exempted women from imprisonment for 
debt, and another simplified and curtailed pleadings at law. 
In order to encourage manufacturing, a general act was passed 
authorizing the formation of corporations without application 
to the legislature. The railroad system also received atten- 
tion, and several new ones incorporated. 

4. In the fall of 1848 another presidential election took 



250 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1847. 



place. Lewis Cass, of Michigan, and W. O. Butler, of Ken- 
tucky, were the Democratic candidates for President and 
Vice-President. The Whig party nominated Zachary Tay- 
lor, of Louisiana, for President; and Millard Fillmore, of New 




I. 



York, for Vice-President. Besides these candidates, the 
Free-soilers, who were opposed to the extension of slavery in 
the newly acquired territory, nominated Martin Van Buren 
for President, and Charles F. Adams for Vice-President. The 
election resulted in the choice of Taylor and Fillmore. Pres- 
ident Taylor, in making his cabinet, appointed George W. 
Crawford, of Georgia, Secretary of War. 



1 849 • ] SLA VER V A GIT A TION, 251 

5. Governor Towns was re-elected to the office of gov- 
ernor in November, 1849, ^-nd began a second term. 

6. The slavery question was now rapidly becoming a dan- 
gerous issue between the North and South. Debates in 
Congress of 1849 ^i^<^ 1850 became frequent and bitter. The 
admission of California into the Union, the formation of a 
government for Utah and New Mexico, the abolition of slav- 
ery in the District of Columbia, the rendition of fugitive 
slaves, were all in debate. 

7. The main question was whether slave labor should be 
forbidden by Congress in the Territories, and whether new 
States formed from the Territories should be admitted into 
the Union unless their constitutions prohibited slavery. The 
strife over this question spread more and more, from year to 
year, until it brought on the great war between the States in 
1861. 

8. The North insisted that slavery should be excluded 
from the new States and Territories. To this the South ob- 
jected, and insisted that the Territories be left free to occu- 
pation by all, with whatever property the States allowed to 
be held. The South also asked that some law of Congress 
be passed by which fugitive slaves, escaping from one State 
to another, should be returned to their owners. 

9. Over this stormy session of Congress, Howell Cobb, of 
Georgia, presided. He had been chosen speaker of the 
House of Representatives after a month's ineffectual ballot- 
ing, and during the whole session had borne himself with 
ability, dignity, and impartial patriotism. The great measures 
which were before the Congress engaged all the powers of 
Clay, Calhoun, Webster, Cobb, Stephens, Toombs, and other 
eminent statesmen of the time. 

10. When the legislature met in 1849, Governor Towns 
sent a message ably reviewing the exciting subject that was 
then agitating the whole country. He also requested a reso- 



252 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1850. 

lution authorizing him to call a convention of the people to 
consider what measures were proper for the preservation of 
the rights of the State. To this request the legislature 
promptly responded by passing the resolution, and, reciting 
certain violations of the Constitution, declared that if Con- 
gress persisted in aggression, it would be the duty of Georgia 
to take measures for withdrawal from the Union. 

11. Pending this turbulent slavery agitation in Congress, 
President Taylor died July, 1850, and Millard Fillmore, the 
Vice-President, succeeded at once to the presidency. 

12. In September, 1850, the "Omnibus Bill," introduced 
in Congress by Henry Clay, was passed. It provided for the 
admission of California as a free State ; that the slave trade 
in the District of Columbia should be abolished; that a law 
be passed for the arrest and return of escaped slaves, and ten 
million dollars be paid to Texas in recompense for the ter- 
ritory of New Mexico. 

13. This was the compromise measure of 1850, and re- 
ceived finally the support of the Georgia Congressmen. 
Stephens and Toombs, both Whigs, were united with Howell 
Cobb, a Democrat, in its advocacy, as the best that could 
be done. Old party lines in Georgia were broken up in this 
sectional excitement, and a new division occurred under the 
names of Southern Rights party and Union party. Governor 
Towns immediately issued his proclamation reciting the act 
of Congress, and calling a convention to consider the duty 
of the State. 

14. An election was accordingly held, and December, 
1850, two hundred and sixty delegates representing ninety- 
five counties met in Milledgeville, and organized the conven- 
tion. The majority of the members was largely from the 
Union party. A committee of three from each judicial cir- 
cmt, with Charles J. Jenkins, chairman, was chosen to pro- 
pose appropriate action for the convention. The able report 



1850.] ADMINISTRATION OF TOWNS, 253 

of this committee was adopted by a large majority, and con- 
stituted a document which was called "The Georgia Plat- 
form." The Georgia Platform met the great issue squarely, 
by averring the faithful attachment of Georgia to the Consti- 
tution and the Union, deprecating the slavery agitation, in- 
sisting on maintenance of States' Rights, and agreeing to 
abide by the settlement of the fiery questions as made by the 
Compromise Bill of Henry Clay. 

The following exhibit of the condition of the State at this 
time is taken from the census of 1850 : Population, nine hun- 
dred and six thousand one hundred and eighty-five, of which 
three hundred and eighty-four thousand six hundred and 
thirteen were slaves. 

There were one thousand five hundred and twenty-two 
manufactories of all sorts, employing eight thousand three 
hundred and sixty-eight persons. 

The production of cotton was four hundred and ninety-nme 
thousand bales, of wheat one million bushels, of oats four 
million bushels, and of corn thirty million bushels. The total 
crops were valued at forty-seven million dollars. Exports had 
increased to nine million dollars, and imports to seven hun- 
dred thousand dollars. These statistics, compared with those 
of 1840, show a great growth in the material wealth of the 
State. 




254 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1851. 



CHAPTER L. 

1851—1856. 

Howell Cobb Elected Governor.— State Prosperity.— "Academy for the 
Blind."— Closing of Central Bank.— Pierce Elected President.— Johnson 
Elected Governor. — New Slavery Agitation. — Americen Party .--Johnson 
Re-elected Governor.— Legislative Action. 



N the gubernatorial election of 1851, Howell Cobb 
was the candidate of the Union party, and Charles 
J. McDonald, of the Southern Rights party. Howell Cobb, 
now in the prime of his intellectual strength and fame, was 
swept into the governor's seat by the overwhelming union 
sentiment of the State. The political canvass was conducted 
with vigor by both parties. Eminent leaders debated the 
exciting questions of the times before great masses of the 
people, and the agitation of the past year flowed into the 
present elecdon. 

2. Governor Cobb, thus elected by the Constitutional 
Union party over the venerable and distinguished McDonald, 
was a statesman of rare gifts. Few men were even his equals. 
He was born in Jefferson County, Georgia, the son of John 
Cobb, of North Carolina. A graduate of the State Univer- 
sity, admitted to the bar in 1836, soon after solicitor-general; 
he was then elected, in 1842, to Congress, and afterwards for 
three more terms. His Congressional course gained him 
nadonal reputation, and fairly won for him the distinguished 
place of Speaker of the House of Representatives of 1850. 
He was devoted to the Union as well as to his State, and 
sought to maintain the rights and true relations of both. 

3. Governor Cobb's administration of two years was dur- 
ing a period of increasing prosperity. The State's finances 



i852.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF COBB. 



255 



were pronounced prosperous by official reports. The agricul- 
tural interests were enhancing, cotton bore a good price 
again, and general thrift began to prevail. Appropriations, 
somewhat meager, were made for educational purposes, and 
a limited sum was set apart for educating poor children 
between the ages of eight and sixteen. The legislature also 
voted ten thousand dollars to found "The Georgia Academy 
for the BUnd." This benevolent institution was established 
in Macon by means of 
subsequent appropria- 
tions, where it still exists 
to the credit of the State. 



4. The Central bank 
paid into the treasury 
three hundred and fifty 
thousand dollars, and 
closed its business in ac- 
cordance with a resolu- 
tion of the legislature. 

5. The Western and 
Atlantic Railroad, be- 
longing to the State, re- 
quired for repairs the 
large sum of half a mill- 
ion of dollars, which was 
appropriated by the legis- 
lature. The management of the road began to produce dis- 
content, which resulted soon in propositions to dispose of it 
to private parties. 

6. The presidential election of 1852, resulted in the elec- 
tion of Franklin Pierce, President, and William R. King, 
Vice-President, candidates of the Democratic party. A com- 
plimentary vote was given in Georgia by many voters to 
the venerable ex-Governor George M. Troup. The electoral 
vote of Georgia was cast for Pierce and King. 




HoweU Cobb. 



256 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1854. 

7. In 1853, the Democratic party was formally recognized 
in Georgia. It had been disbanded since 1850. Herschel 
V. Johnson was duly nominated the Democratic candidate 
for governor, and defeated his noble opponent, Charles J. 
Jenkins. 

8. Governor Johnson was born in Burke County in Sep- 
tember 18, 181 2. He graduated at the University, practiced 
law awhile in Augusta, and afterwards moved to Jefferson 

County, and was early 
mentioned as a ''youth- 
ful giant who fought with 
burnished armor." In 
1847, Walter T. Colquitt, 
having resigned his seat 
in the United States Sen- 
ate, Governor Towns ap- 
pointed Johnson to the 
vacancy, where he serv- 
ed one year. In 1849, 
he was elected judge of 
the superior court of the 
Ocmulgee Circuit, and 
now his increasing fame 
bore him on to the dis- 
tinguished position of 
H.V.Johnson. governor. 

9. The legislature which met the new governor in the bien- 
nial session of 1853 and 1854, passed a large number of use- 
ful acts, incorporating companies to prosecute the business 
of mining. They also incorporated steamboat, factory, and 
telegraph companies, and gave numerous railroad charters. 
A joint committee from the senate and house was appointed 
to examine into the affairs of the State road. A similar com- 
mittee was appointed by the next legislature, and the con- 
dition of the road was exposed to public knowledge. 




1 855-] ADMINISTRATION OF COBB. 257 

10. The passage of bills by the legislatures of some North- 
ern States to nullify the compromise measures of 1850, and 
the agitation of the slavery question, in Congress, began 
again to create new apprehensions in the minds of the people 
as to the stability of the recent peace between the two sec- 
tions. The legislature in February, 1854, sharing this com- 
mon fear, passed a resolution saying that Georgia desired 
to abide by the compromise measure of 1850, expressed a 
hope that all slavery agitation would cease, and declared 
their confidence that the main body of the Northern people 
were yet faithful to the compromise. 

11. The next legislature, meeting in biennial session, in 
1855, was elected under new party alignments. The old 
Whig party, in Georgia, had been dissolved during the late 
years of political turmoil, and absorbed by the Southern 
Rights and Union parties, so that it ceased to exist. The 
Democratic party had been reorganized in the State, and 
now a new political body called the American party, which 
had sprung up in the United States, was introduced into 
Georgia, and gained many strong adherents, chiefly from the 
Whig party. The principles of this new party were opposi- 
tion to alien suffrage, that is, the voting of foreigners in the 
State and national elections, until after a long residence, and 
also opposition to the election of Roman Catholics to office. 
The party was short lived, but drew into its support many 
able men, and won many local victories. An issue upon 
its principles was joined in the contest of 1855, for the legis- 
lature and the office of governor. Garnett Andrews was 
the nominee of the American party, and Herschel V. John- 
son, of the Democratic party. The election resulted in the 
choice of Governor Johnson. 

12. The legislature again passed many laws favoring in- 
ternal improvements, and in aid of agriculture and commerce, 
also promoting mining and manufactures, and encouraging 
the building of plank roads and railroads. 



258 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1856. 



13. The legislation, during the few years past, had greatly 
improved the judiciary of the State. At this session, the 
laws concerning the supreme court were amended so as to 
simplify proceedings, and also reducing the number of places 
where the court was to be held. 

14. Legislation had become so burdened by private local 
bills, that a constitutional amendment was made restricting 
the power of the legislature, and requiring an act to be 
passed to confer upon the superior courts the power to 
change names of persons, and legitimate persons, to make 
precincts, and establish bridges and ferries. This reform in 
legislation has since been considerably extended. 

15. This legislature, anticipating troubles which soon again 
arose out of the vexed slavery question, passed an act in 
March, 1856, authorizing the governor to call a convention 
of delegates from all the counties of the State, whenever 
Congress violated the principles of the Georgia platform, and 
providing an ample sum to meet its expenses. 




[856.] ADMINISTRATION OF JOHNSON. 259 



CHAPTER LI. 

1856—1858. 

Buchanan Elected President.— Charter of Air Line Railroad.— Democratic 
Convention. — Nomination of Joseph E. Brown for Governor. — Ameri- 
can Party Convention.— Nomination of B. H. Hill.— Brown Elected 
Governor.— Bank Controversy.— Toombs Elected Senator.— Lumpkin 
Elected Chief Justice.— Biennial Session of Legislature. — Improvement 
of State Road. — Cotton Planters' Convention. 




HE anti-slavery elements of the Union combined to 
hold a convention in Philadelphia, June, 1856, and 
organized the Republican party. Their platform was 
opposition to slavery in the Territories, and they nomyiated 
John C. Fremont for President, and William L. Dayton for 
Vice-President. 

2. The American party likewise held a convention, and set 
forth as their platform the compromise of 1850, and opposi- 
tion to alien suffrage. Their candidate for President was 
Millard Fillmore, and for Vice-President, A. J. Donelson. 

3. The Democrats in national convention adopted again the 
compromise of 1850, with approval of the territorial legislation 
of 1850, and nominated for the Presidency James Buchanan, 
and for Vice-President, John C. Breckenridge. Thus, a triang- 
ular contest took place in 1856 for the highest office in the 
United States, and resulted in the overwhelming election of 
the Democratic candidates. Buchanan was duly inaugurated 
March 4, 1857, and in forming his cabinet chose Howell 
Cobb, of Georgia, Secretary of the Treasury. 

4. In 1856 the Air Line Railroad was chartered. Jona- 
than Norcross was the first president. Work was not begun 
until 1867, and the road was finally completed in 1872, 
costing nearly eight million dollars. 



260 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1857. 

5. In the fall of 1857 another election of Governor oc- 
curred. There were five prominent candidates for nomina- 
tion by the Democratic convention, which met at Milledgeville, 
June 20, viz. : James Gardner, John H. Lumpkin, Hiram 
Warner, Henry Lamar, and William H. Stiles. When the 
balloting began, Lumpkin was the leading name, but he 
could not gain the two-thirds vote necessary to nominate. 
The balloting continued for three days, interrupted only by 
warm speeches and various motions. The excitement in- 
creased, and it seemed impossible to make a nomination 
under the two-thirds rule. 

6. At the close of the third day, William Hope Hull 
moved that a committee of three from each district be ap- 
pointed to make the nomination. The motion being agreed 
to, the committee retired, and setting aside the names of all 
the candidates voted for hitherto, presented to the convention 
the name of Joseph E. Brown. The timely suggestion met 
with general favor, and the nomination was unanimously 
made. The convention then passed resolutions commending 
the course of Buchanan as President, and Herschel V. John- 
son as governor, and complimenting the distinguished serv- 
ices of Robert Toombs and Alfred Iverson in the United 
States Senate. 

7. The nomination of Joseph E. Brown was unexpected 
both by the people and himself. He was at the time a 
judge of the superior court, rapidly rising into notice, and at 
the very hour of his nomination was engaged in binding wheat 
in a field on his farm near Canton. 

8. The American party held a convention, also, but only 
fifty-seven counties were represented. Dr. H. V. M. Miller 
and Benjamin H. Hill were the two most prominent mem- 
bers of that party, and their names were presented by their 
friends for the nomination. The convention nominated 
Hill. 



[857. 



ADMINISTRATION OF BROWN, 



261. 



9. The contest which followed between Brown and Hill 
was a noted one. Hill was already the great orator of Geor- 
gia, possessing a magical eloquence. Brown was plain and 
practical in his speeches, but possessed wonderful political 
sagacity and common sense. Both candidates were person- 
ally very able, and both were strongly supported by the best' 
men in the State. Hill, however, was the candidate of the 
unpopular party, and 

when the election came 
on, Brown w^as chosen 
by a large majority. 

10. Governor Brown 
was born in Pickens 
County, South Carolina, 
near the birth-place of 
John C. Calhoun, April 
15, 182 1. He w'as the 
oldest of eleven children, 
and spent the most of 
his youth working on a 
farm. When still young, 
his parents moved to 
Georgia, and settled at 
Gaddistown, in Union 
County. In 1840 he re- 
turned to South Carolina, 

and began his education, paying his own board and tuition. 
In 1845, ^^'^ w^s admitted to the bar, and became a success- 
ful lawyer. He w^as soon elected to the State senate, where 
he estabhshed a reputation for knowledge of the State's affairs, 
and excellent judgment in legislation. Next he was elected 
judge of the Blue Ridge circuit, which place he held with 
ability, until elected governor, in 1857. Governor Brown 
was but thirty-six years of age when elected governor, and 
was nearly unknown to the people of the State. His local 




Joseph E. Brown. 



262 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1857. 

reputation was, however, of a high order, and during the 
canvass his abihties became widely known. 

11. The famous controversy with the banks was one of 
the distinguishing events of Governor Brown's administration. 
During Governor Johnson's term, many of the banks had sus- 
pended specie payment, and thrown the finances of the State 
into confusion, resulting in "panic, broken confidence, and 
general stagnation in commerce." The banks stated they had 
suspended in self-defense against heavy draughts from the 
North. Governor Brown, in his inaugural address, said that 
he would begin proceedings at law for a forfeiture of their 
charters. The general assembly sympathized with the banks, 
and opposed the policy proposed by the governor. A bill 
was therefore introduced, suspending all forfeiture proceed- 
ings against the banks for one year. The measure was 
w^armly discussed in the legislature, and its fate anxiously 
watched by the bank men and their friends. It finally 
passed, but Governor Brown promptly returned it with his 
veto. The returned bill was again fiercely discussed in the 
legislature, and when the vote was taken, it was passed over 
the veto of Governor Brown by a two-thirds vote. 

12. The question w^as now transferred to the people for 
settlement. The press was arrayed against the governor; 
leading men hotly assailed his views; the banks threatened 
financial ruin ; but the people at large endorsed his course. 
During 1858, nearly all the banks resumed specie payments. 
Several, however, failed to make the prescribed semi-annual 
return, and the governor immediately began suits for the for- 
feiture of their charters. Through his efforts a system of 
bank reform was begun, that greatly benefitted the State. 

13. The legislature of 1857 reelected Robert Toombs, 
United States Senator, and Joseph H. Lumpkin, chief justice 
of the supreme court. Charles J. McDonald, and Henry L. 
Benning, were the associate judges. 

M. The law passed in 1840, making the sessions of the 



i858.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF BROWN. 



263 



legislature biennial, was repealed, and annual sessions were 
again held, limited to forty days, unless extended by a two- 
thirds vote. 

15. The affairs of the State road largely occupied Governor 
Brown's attention. In 1856, it had paid only forty-three 
thousand dollars into the 

State treasury, and loud 
complaints were made 
concerning this small in- 
come from such fine 
property. Governor 
Brown determined on a 
change of management, 
and directed a rigid sys- 
tem of economy. Sal- 
aries were reduced, use- 
less employees dis- 
charged, and abuses 
were corrected. These 
wise orders of the execu- 
tive being faithfully exe- 
cuted, the road paid 
into the treasury a great 
revenue, vi^. : four hun- 
dred thousand dollars in one year. 

16. In 1858, a cotton planters' convention was held in 
Milledgeville. Howell Cobb was president. Several addresses 
were made upon the subject of cotton, and committees ap- 
pointed to investigate the cotton interests. 




Robert Toombs. 



2G4 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA, [1859. 



CHAPTER LII. 

. 1859-1860. 

Brown Re-elected Governor. — ^John Brown Raid. — Dissensions in the State 
Democratic Party. — National Democratic Convention at Charleston. — 
Dissensions in Convention. — 'Withdrawal of Southern States. — Presi- 
dential Candidates. — Richmond Convention. — Democratic Candidates 
for President. — Lincoln Elected. — South Carolina Secedes from the 
Union.— Meeting of Legislature.— Governor's Message.— Condition of 
the State. 



HE gubernatorial race occurred again in 1859. Gov- 
ernor Brown's wisdom and integrity, together with his 
evident regard for the interests of all the people, made him 
very popular, and the people were anxious for his reelection. 

2. The Democratic convention met in Milledgeville, June, 
1859, and its voice was for Governor Brown, and he being 
nominated, was again a candidate for governor. The conven- 
tion also indorsed the administration of President Buchanan. 

3. The Opposition party met in Atlanta in August, and 
placed in nomination Warren Aiken, of Cass County. The 
election was attended with little excitement, and Brown was 
again elected by a majority of twenty-two thousand votes, 
and having taken the oath of office began his second term. 

4. The legislature of 1859 elected R. F. Lyon and Linton 
Stephens justices of the supreme court. 

5. Slavery agitations in Congress and in the Northern 
States kept the people of Georgia in apprehension of trouble. 
The spirit of secession began to be inflamed again as the 
period for another presidential election drew nigh, and the 
fears of Congress increased. Distinct avowals by Northern 
poHtical meetings, of the purpose to abolish slavery in the 
States, excited uneasiness. The John Brown raid, as it was 



1 860. ] A DM IN IS TRA TION OF BR O WN. 265 

termed, unhappily occurred at this juncture, and produced a 
wild excitement not only in Virginia but in Georgia and other 
Southern States. With twenty-one followers, he had seized 
the United States arsenal at Harper's Ferry, in Virginia. His 
purpose appears to have been to excite a servile war through- 
out the South, and hence Georgia joined in the general ab- 
horrence of his bloody scheme. The bold attempt, however, 
signally failed. Brown was captured, prosecuted in the 
courts of Virginia, and executed for his crimes. 

6. At this juncture, divisions in the Democratic party of 
Georgia began to show themselves. Two conventions, called 
by different authorities, to elect delegates to the national con- 
vention at Charleston, created no little confusion. The first 
met in December, 1859, and recommended Howell Cobb to 
the Charleston convention as Georgia's candidate for the 
presidency, and elected delegates to represent the State. 
Howell Cobb, however, wrote a patriotic letter declining to 
have his name used in connection with the presidency. 

7. The other State Democratic convention met March, 
i860, at Milledgeville. Alexander R. Lawton presided. This 
convention refused to adopt the resolutions of the former 
convention, but chose the same delegates to represent the 
State at Charleston. 

8. The National Democratic convention met at Charleston, 
April, i860, to nominate a candidate for the presidency, and 
to provide for a campaign against the Republican party, 
which had now grown to formidable proportions. 

9. But the most unhappy dissensions distracted the con- 
vention, and prepared the party for defeat. The committee 
appointed to propose a platform of principles, divided into 
three parts, and presented one majority report and two mi- 
nority reports. The debates were characterized by an ability 
equaled only by their violence. North and South were even 
here, in a national party, hotly arrayed against each other. 
The Northern members, having superior numbers, adopted 

23 



266 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [i860. 



measures that caused the delegates of several Southern States 
to withdraw, led by the fiery and eloquent William L. 
Yancey. 

10. The delegation from Georgia was divided in opinion, 
and held a consultation, when a large majority decided to 
retire from the convention, together with delegates from other 
States. The seceders, among them those of Georgia, then 
met, and called a convention to be held in Richmond the 
second Monday in June, i860. The remaining members of 
the original convention, unable to make a nomination, also 
adjourned to meet in Baltimore, June, i860. 

11. The action of the convention created a profound sen- 
sation in Georgia. The feeling became general that the 
union of the States was in great peril. Very contrary opin- 
ions were held, and the ablest statesmen gave conflicting 
advice. The Democratic party in Georgia was rent in twain. 

12. Another national party reorganized under the name of 
the Constitutional Union party, held a convention at Balti- 
more, and nominated John Bell for President, with Edward 
Everett for Vice-President. They were without any platform, 
except the motto "The Union, the Constitution, and the en- 
forcement of the laws." 

13. The Republican party met at Chicago, and nominated 
Abraham Lincoln for President, and Hannibal Hamlin for 
Vice-President. 

14. The Democratic convention of Georgia met again 
June, i860, and the dissensions in the party at once showed 
themselves. The action of the majority caused a minority 
to withdraw and form another convention, and by this means 
a double set of delegates were appointed to the national con- 
vention. It is thus seen how disrupted and discordant was 
the Democratic party of the State and Union at this impor- 
tant juncture. 

15. The Richmond convention met, and adjourned until 



i86o.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF BROWN. 



267 



after the meeting of the Baltimore convention. The Balti- 
more convention assembled, and the two delegations from 
Georgia presented their credentials for admission. Mean- 
while, discord sprang up afresh, and Virginia, Tennessee, 
North Carolina, Kentucky, and Oregon withdrew. Caleb 
Cushing resigned the presidency of the convention, and the 
party was completely broken. 
The remaining delegates, 
however, chose Stephen A. 
Douglas candidate for Presi- 
dent, and Herschel V. John- 
son, of Georgia, for Vice- 
President. 

16. The seceding delegates 
formed a new convention, 
over which Caleb Cushing 
presided, and nominated 
John C. Brecken ridge for 
President, and Joseph Lane 
for Vice-President. Thus, 
the powerful Democratic 
party was split into fragments with two candidates in the 
field. 

17. The party in Georgia put out two electoral tickets, and 
divided the votes between Breckenridge and Douglas. No 
vote was cast in Georgia for Lincoln. In the election, the 
Republican party was triumphant, Lincoln and Hamlin being 
elected by large majorities. In Georgia the vote stood: 
Breckenridge, fifty-one thousand eight hundred and ninety- 
three; for Douglas, eleven thousand five hundred and eighty; 
for Bell, forty-two thousand eight hundred and fifty-six. 

18. As soon as the result of the presidential election was 
known, intense anxiety arose in the Southern States. South 
CaroHna passed an ordinance of secession December 20, 
i860, withdrawing from the Union, alleging that Congress had 




Abraham Lincoln. 



268 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [i860. 

already violated the Constitution, that Northern States had 
not kept the compact of the Union, and that the avowed 
principles of the Republican party were incompatible with 
the rights of the States. 

19. When the legislature of Georgia met in i860, Gov- 
ernor Brown sent a message showing great prosperity in the 
State. The State road had paid four hundred and fifty 
thousand dollars into the treasury, and the various appropri- 
ations amply provided for. Seventy-five thousand dollars had 
been expended to buy arms, and he recommended an in- 
creased appropriation of one million dollars to defend the 
State against any possible armed aggression. At this session 
of the legislature the office of adjutant-general was created. 
Ten thousand troops were called for, and one thousand May- 
nard rifles and carbines ordered to be purchased. 

20. But the discordant political condition of the times be- 
gan to depress the finances of the State, and many banks 
were threatened with the evils of suspension. The legislature 
therefore passed several relief bills, which the governor, how- 
ever, vetoed. They were at last passed over his veto, and 
became laws. 

21. The report of the comptroller-general, for the year 
i860, showed increased prosperity in the State. In one year 
there had been a gain of over sixty million dollars in public 
wealth. There were twenty-five banks in the State, of which 
Savannah had nine, and Augusta six. The State debt was 
two million six hundred and seventy thousand dollars. The 
income from taxes and other sources of revenue was ample 
to cover the expenses of the State. 

22. The population, according to the United States Census 
of i860, was one million fifty-seven thousand two hundred 
and eighty-six. Of these, there were three thousand five 
hundred free colored people, four hundred and sixty-two 
thousand one hundred and ninety-eight slaves, and five hun- 



i86o.] ADMINISTRATION OF BROWN. 269 

dred and ninety-one thousand five hundred and eighty-eight 
whites. 

23. The improved lands amounted to over eight miUion 
acres, besides the vast untilled forests. The real estate and 
personal property were valued at six hundred and forty-six 
million dollars. Capital invested in manufactories, one mill- 
ion eight hundred thousand dollars. 

24. Thus, it will be seen that Georgia was in the enjoy- 
ment of great wealth and prosperity in i860. In commerce 
and agriculture, in education and religion, the State was 
steadily advancing, when the four years' war which now befell 
the South prostrated her into poverty. 



270 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1861. 



CHAPTER LIII. 

1861. 

Secession Excitement. — Seizure of Fort Pulaski. — Georgia Convention. — 
Secession of Georgia from the Union. — Seizure of Arsenal at Augusta. — 
Withdrawal of Georgia Representatives from Congress. 

^OVERNOR BROWN recommended to the legislature 
^K of i860, that when it was ascertained that Lincoln 
was elected, a convention be called to decide upon the 
best course for the State to pursue. The legislature, accord- 
ingly, called a convention of the people to meet January 16, 
1861. 

2. The excitement concerning secession was very great. 
In nearly every county meetings were held, and seceding 
resolutions adopted. But many able men were opposed 
to immediate secession, among whom were Alexander H. 
Stephens and Benjamin H. Hill. Howell Cobb heartily sup- 
ported secession, and resigned his position as Secretary of 
the Treasury. T. R. R. Cobb, who until now kept him- 
self aloof from poHtics, but who, as a noted jurist and citizen 
of great public spirit, enjoyed universal popularity, addressed 
the people with irresistible eloquence in favor of separation, 
Ex-Governor Wilson Lumpkin, in his old age, wrote a letter 
urging secession. Robert Toombs continued awhile his fiery 
speeches in the United States Senate, and younger statesmen 
entered heartily into the struggle. 

3. When the news that South Carolina had seceded from 
the Union reached Georgia, it produced great agitation. 
Public meetings were held throughout the State, speeches 
were made, resolutions were passed, guns were fired, and 



i86i.] IVAJ^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 271 

torch-light processions paraded through the streets of the 
towns. 

4. Governor Brown, with wise forethought, began prepara- 
tions for the struggle he saw was inevitable. Fort Pulaski, 
at the mouth of the Savannah River, was an important posi- 
tion, and he determined to take possession of it before the 
Federal authoriues had strengthened it beyond capture. 
Going to Savannah, he issued an order to the first regiment 
of Georgia volunteers, under Colonel A. R. Lawton, to seize 
the fort, and put it in a thorough state of defence. It was 
to be held until January i6, 1861, when the convention of 
the State would determine the policy to be pursued in regard 
to the Union. The seizure was made on the morning of 
January 3, 1861, and the news increased the excitement in 
the South. The fort contained only twenty guns, with but 
little ammunition. It was soon, however, put in good order, 
guns were mounted, and troops put in training. Governor 
Brown telegraphed his action to the governors of other 
Southern States, and many of them quickly followed the 
example of Georgia. In Alabama every fort and arsenal 
was seized. 

5. The convention of Georgia assembled January 16, 1861. 
The president was George W. Crawford, who had been gov- 
ernor in 1843. The delegates were the ablest men in the 
State, representing every opinion for and against secession. 
Among them were Robert Toombs, Alexander Stephens, Lin- 
ton Stephens, E. A. Nisbet, A. H. Colquitt, Herschel V. John- 
son, B. H. Hill, and Hiram Warner. The eyes of the Union 
were turned towards this body. Judge Nisbet introduced 
a resolution in favor of secession, and to appoint a com- 
mittee to prepare an ordinance. This brought the issue at 
once before the convention, and produced a gigantic con- 
flict of masterly argument and eloquence. The debate was 
elaborate and the speeches eloquent. Judge Nisbet, T. R. 
R. Cobb, Toombs, Barton, and others stood up for seces- 



272 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1861. 



sion. H. V. Johnson, Alexander Stephens, and Benjamin 
H. Hill opposed it. January 19, 1861, the vote was taken 
on the motion of Judge Nisbet, and carried amidst high 
excitement. An ordinance of secession was prepared and 
signed by all the members. Thus, Georgia seceded and 
became an independent State. 

6. The effect upon the people was electrical; enthusiasm 
prevailed every-where; meetings were held, and fiery speeches 
delivered. 

7. Governor Brown, with characteristic promptness, deter- 
mined to seize the Federal arsenal at Augusta, over which 
the Federal flag still floated. The garrison was commanded 
by Captain Arnold Elzey, with eighty United States soldiers. 
The volunteers of Augusta were ordered out, and eight hun- 
dred responded. Governor Brown sent an order through 
Colonel Henry R. Jackson to Captain Elzey to surrender 
his post to the Confederate authorities. This Captain Elzey 
refused to do, and informed the authorities at Washington 
of the condition of affairs. He was instructed to hold his 
post until forced to surrender by violence or starvation, and 
then to stipulate for honorable terms. 

8. The Augusta companies assembled January 23, 1861, 
but were dismissed until next day. Just as they were re- 
assembling for the purpose of marching to the attack of the 
arsenal, a message came from Captain Elzey requesting an 
interview with Governor Brown. Governor Brown, with his 
staff, proceeded to the arsenal, where terms of surrender 
were agreed upon, and the United States flag lowered and 
saluted with thirty-three guns. The garrison marched out 
with military honors, and proceeding to Savannah, were 
transported to New York. 

9. The flag of Georgia, consisting of a pure white field, 
with a single red star in the center, to indicate the sover- 
eignty of the State, was raised. The State obtained from 
the arsenal twenty-two thousand small arms, quantities of 



i86i.] IVAJ^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 273 

powder and ball, two cannons, and two howitzers. This 
was a valuable capture, and was hailed with great rejoicing. 

10. All the representatives of Georgia withdrew from Con- 
gress after the Secession ordinance was passed, except Joshua 
Hill, who afterward resigned in a letter to the Speaker. The 
representatives were Martin J. Crawford, Peter E. Love, 
Thomas J. Hardeman, Lucius J. Gartrell, J. W. H. Under- 
wood, James Jackson, John Jones, and Joshua Hill. 




274 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [i86i. 




CHAPTER LIV. 

1S61. 

Davis and Stephens elected President and Vice-President of Confederate 
States.— Peace Committee.— State Convention.— Military Measures.— 
First requisition for Troops. — Enthusiasm. — Fort Sumter Captured.^ 
Richmond made Confederate Capital.— First Battle of Manassas.— Bank 
Convention in Atlanta.— Brown Elected Governor for a Third Term.— 
Meeting of Legislature.— State Military Preparations.— General War 
Operations. 

HE convention of the seceded States met February 4, 
'•^ 1 86 1, at Montgomery, Alabama. Georgia, Florida, 
Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and South Carolina 
were represented. Howell Cobb was made president of the 
convention. Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, was elected 
President of the Confederate States, and Alexander H. 
Stephens^ of Georgia, Vice-President. A provisional gov- 
ernment was formed, and February 18, 1861, Davis was in- 
augurated. March 4, 1861, Lincoln was inaugurated Presi- 
dent of the United States. 

2. President Davis immediately appointed a committee of 
three persons: Martin J. Crawford, of Georgia; John For- 
syth, of Alabama; and A. B. Roman, of Louisiana, to go to 
Washington City and negotiate for the friendly adjustment 
of all questions with the United States. But the efforts of 
the commissioners accomplished nothing. 

3. The people of Georgia were divided as to the policy of 
secession, but after the act was passed, and the government 
of the Confederate States was formed, they united in support 
of the Southern cause. Other States likewise divided in re- 
gard to secession, but entered into the war with patriotic fer- 
vor when it came. Virginia made special effort to effect a 



il.] 



IVA/^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 



275 



reconciliation, and called a peace convention at Washington, 
to which thirteen States responded, and over which John 
Forsyth presided. But the effort was a failure, and nothing 
came of the convention 

4. The Secession convention of Georgia met again in Sa- 
vannah, March 7, 1861. The Confederate constitution was 
then adopted, as well as a 

new State constitution. 
Military measures, intend- 
ing to strengthen the State, 
and prepare it for war, 
were also passed; and the 
convention, after a two 
weeks' session, adjourned. 

5. The governor contin- 
ued to organize the volun- 
teer companies, and ap- 
pointed William H. T. 
Walker major-general of a 
division. He also con- 
tracted with an iron com- 
pany in Richmond, Virginia, for a number of cannon of 
long range and large caliber for coast defense. He took 
possession of the United States Mint at Dahlonega, with 
twenty thousand dollars gold coin, and used all the precau- 
tion which the perilous times demanded. 

6. The seceded States had by this time taken possession of 
all forts and arsenals in their limits, except Fort Sumter and 
several small coast forts. Men were needed to garrison and 
defend them from the threatened Northern attack. President 
Davis made a requisition upon Governor Brown for a regi- 
ment of soldiers to defend Fort Pickens at Pensacola. So 
high was the war fever, and so enthusiastic the troops, that 
over two hundred and fifty companies tendered their services. 
Companies hurried from all parts of the State. Governor 




Jefferson Davis. 



276 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1861. 

Brown judiciously selected several companies from different 
counties, and directed them to organize a regiment and se- 
lect their own officers. James N. Ramsay was chosen colo- 
nel; J. O. Clark, lieutenant-colonel; and G. B. Thompson, 
major. Governor Brown addressed them in a patriotic 
speech, which produced great enthusiasm among the new sol- 
diers. Governor Brown also procured several gunboats for 
coast defense, and placed them under command of Commo- 
dore Josiah Tatnall. 

7. Exciting events now occurred in rapid succession. April 
13, 1861, Major Anderson, of the Federal army, surrendered 
Fort Sumter and one hundred men to General Beauregard of 
the Southern army, after a heavy bombardment. The news 
of the fall of the fort produced intense feeling, North and 
South, and was made the initial act of the great war. 

8. President Lincoln, within two days after, called for sev- 
enty-five thousand volunteers. But when the call came to 
Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, 
Kentucky, Arkansas, and Missouri, they returned defiant 
answers. Virginia seceded at once from the Union ; Arkan- 
sas, North Carohna, and Tennessee followed. These acces- 
sions greatly strengthened the Confederate cause. 

9. The States which remained in the Union had a popula- 
tion of twenty-three millions, while the Confederate States 
had only eight millions. The South had an insignificant 
navy, while the North possessed a fleet to blockade the 
Southern ports. 

10. May 21, 1 86 1, the seat of the Confederate government 
was transferred from Montgomery to Richmond, Virginia. 
The Confederate Congress met and called for volunteers, and 
passed an act enlisting soldiers for the war. To every requi- 
sition that came to Georgia there was an enthusiastic re- 
sponse. Companies were eager to be chosen, and pressed 
their claims for preference. The patriotic spirit of the State 
was aroused, and men were ready for the war. 



i86i.] WAR BETWEEN THE STATES. 277 



11. The first battle of Manassas was fought July 21, 1861, 
in which the Federals were signally defeated. Several Geor- 
gia regiments were in this battle. General Bartow com- 
manded a brigade of the Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, and 
Eleventh Georgia regiments, and the First Kentucky regi- 
ment. Bartow acted with great bravery, and fell in the thick- 
est of the fight. He died, saying: ''They have killed me^ 
BUT never give UP." On going to Virginia with his troops 
from Georgia, he used the patriotic and now historic expres- 
sion: "I GO TO ILLUSTRATE GEORGIA ! " The Confederates 
lost two thousand men, the Federals three thousand, Avith 
many cannon, muskets, cartridges, and flags. 

12. Preparations for the war were now going on all over 
the South, but nowhere with greater activity than in Geor- 
gia. Troops were organized into companies, drilled, and 
held ready for call. The coast, from Savannah to the Flor- 
ida line, was placed under command of General A. R. Law- 
ton, and the naval force under Commodore Josiah Tatnall. 
Fort Pulaski was equipped at an expense of eighty thousand 
dollars, and three war steamers were purchased. Every pre- 
caution was taken to defend the coast. 

13. July 3, 1 86 1, a bank convention of the Confederate 
States met in Atlanta, and took into consideration the finan- 
cial affairs of the new government. Georgia, South Carohna, 
Alabama, and Florida were represented. Resolutions were 
passed approving the Confederate paper money. 

14. Governor Brown paid a visit to the coast in Septem- 
ber, and deeming the force stationed there insufficient, or- 
dered out additional troops for its defence. He also issued a 
call for money and clothing for the troops in the field. The 
State was without sufficient arms, and the Governor urged the 
people to send their rifles and shot-guns for temporary use. 
Already Georgia had sent thirty thousand troops into the 
field, of which twenty thousand had gone to Virginia. 

15. The election of governor took place in October, in the 

24 



278 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1861. 

midst of these active preparations for war. A convention to 
nominate a candidate for governor met in September, and 
Judge E. A. Nisbet was nominated to oppose Governor 
Brown, who was already a candidate for reelection. Gov- 
ernor Brown made no canvass, and delivered no speeches, 
but when the election came on he was chosen by a majority 
ol nearly fourteen thousand votes. 

16. The message of Governor Brown to the legislature of 
1 86 1 showed that Georgia had already sent fifty regiments 




V. 



■-^t 



ArtiHery Rushing to the Fight. 



into the field, of which it had equipped thirty, and a further 
appropriation of a million and a half dollars was urged for 
military purposes. 

17, The State had also secured four thousand Enfield 
rifles and cannon, five hundred sabres, and several tons of 
cartridges and shells by running the blockade. 

18. At this session of the legislature large sums were ap- 
propriated for hospital supplies, and for military equipment. 
The manufacture of salt by evaporation was encouraged by 
an appropriation of fifty thousand dollars. The executive 
appointment of Charles J. Jenkins, judge of Supreme Court, 
was confirmed, and Benjamin H. Hill and Robert Toombs 
were elected Senators to the Confederate Congress. Toombs, 
however, declined the office, and Governor Brown appointed 
Dr. John W. Lewis in his place. Toombs also resigned his 
place as Secretary of State in the cabinet of President Davis, 



i86i.] IVAJ^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 279 

and joined the army with the commission of brigadier-general. 
Howell Cobb, Henry R. Jackson, W. H. T. Walker, A. R. 
Lawton, T. R. R. Cobb, A. R. Wright, and A. H. Colquitt 
were all in the field at brigadier-generals. David E. Twiggs 
and W. J. Hardee, both Georgians, had also been commis- 
sioned major-generals. 

19. General George B. McClellan was placed in command 
of the Northern army of the Potomac in Virginia, after the 
battle of Bull Run — a magnificent force of one hundred 
and fifty thousand men opposed by one hundred thousand 
Confederates. At the close of 1861, the advantage of the 
war was in favor of the Confederates. The land and naval 
victories which they had achieved gave great promise of final 
success. 




280 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1S62. 



CHAPTER LV. 

1862—1863. 

Confederate Disasters.— Federals Capture Fort Pulaski.— Conscript Law,— 
Attempt on State Road.— Confederate Successes.— Death of T. R. R. 
Cobb. — Legislature of 1862.— Slaves Emancipated.— Federal Raid in 
Georgia.— Repulse of attack on Fort McAllister.— Extra Session of 
Legislature.— Federal Successes.— Brown Elected Governor for a 
Fourth Term.— Enrollment of Militia.— A. R. Lavi'ton Appointed Quar- 
termaster-General. — Disastrous Close of 1863. 

^r^T the beginning of 1862, the Federal army numbered 
*1iaJ ^^g^^ hundred thousand, while the Confederate army 
was scarcely three hundred thousand men. The year 
opened disastrously to the South. Kentucky and Tennessee 
both fell into the Federal hands. General Burnside captured 
Roanoke Island, with its garrison, on the coast of North 
Carolina, and soon after took possession of Newberne. Also 
St. Augustine and Fernandina, in Florida, were taken pos- 
session of by the Federal authority. Howell Cobb, Robert 
Toombs, Martin Crawford, and T. R. R. Cobb addressed a 
paper to the people of Georgia, stating clearly the position 
of affairs. They freely discussed what they called ' ' unpalata- 
ble facts," showing the power of the enemy and their re- 
sources, while the Confederates were comparatively weak, 
and also cut off from foreign countries. They urged con- 
cord of action as the sole assurance of success. 

2. A requisition for twelve regiments came from the Con- 
federate Government, and the State again promptly responded. 
The war tax was over two million dollars and was readily 
paid. 

3. Active operations were also going on within the State 
itself. General Henry R. Jackson was made major-general 



1 862.] IVAJ? BETWEEN THE STATES. 281 

of State troops, and placed in command of the coast. Gen- 
eral Lawton was in command of the Confederate troops 
within Georgia. At this time several Federal war vessels 
appeared on the coast, and forced a way up the Savannah 
River, compelling Pemberton, who had succeeded Lee in 
command of the southern coast, to abandon Tybee and 
Warsaw Islands. The Federals then erected batteries on 
Tybee Island preparatory to an attack on Fort Pulaski. The 
Confederate garrison in this fort consisted of three hun- 
dred and sixty-five men, with twenty-four officers, commanded 
by Colonel Charles Olmstead. General Hunter, command- 
ing the Federals, demanded surrender, but Colonel Olmstead 
courageously replied that he was there "to defend the fort 
and not to surrender it." The bombardment now began, and 
soon forced the fort to surrender. 

4. The loss of Fort Pulaski, instead of depressing, in- 
creased the war spirit among all Georgians. The time of 
enlistment of the State troops was now expiring, but they 
generally reenfisted on the appeal of the governor, who 
visited them for that purpose. Volunteer companies were 
also constantly organizing, to be formed into regiments of 
the Confederate army. 

5. An act known as the Conscript Law was passed by the 
Confederate Congress in April, 1862. It compelled the enlist- 
ment of all able bodied men between the ages of eighteen 
and thirty-five, which interval was afterwards broadened. 
This act was the cause of a serious controversy between 
Governor Brown and President Davis, conducted by a pub- 
lished correspondence, in which the governor denied the con- 
stitutionality and necessity of conscription, while the President 
affirmed both. But while Governor Brown thus opposed the 
Conscript Law, he did not refuse to obey the call for troops 
whenever made. 

6. A bold attempt was made in April, 1862, by a party of 
Federal spies to carry off an engine and several cars on the 



282 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1862. 

State Road. Twenty-two of these men boarded the train at 
Marietta, and detaching the engine, w^ith part of the cars, 
started for Chattanooga. The conductor and engineer, who 
had left the cars for tlieir dinner, saw the capture, and went 
in pursuit on a hand-car. Soon an engine was obtained, 
and the fugitives w^ere overtaken, their steam being exhausted. 
When they saw that they were about to be captured, they 
abandoned the engine and fled into the woods. But all were 
caught, and eight were tried and hung as spies, the others 
being retained as prisoners of war. 

7. In the early part of 1862, the Federals gained several 
brilliant victories, capturing New Orleans, Memphis, over- 
running Kentucky and other portions of the South. But later 
in the year the Confederates were successful. Lee defeated 
McClellan, Pope, and Burnside in succession. In all the 
great battles of 1862, Georgians bore a gallant part, sustain- 
ing great and irreparable losses in brave men while w^inning 
brilliant victories. Among the slain was the most brilliant 
lawyer of Georgia, the gallant General T. R. R. Cobb, who 
fell December 13th, at the battle of Fredericksburg. 

8. The legislature which met during November, 1862, was 
engaged in closely considering the most serious questions. The 
conscript law was ably discussed, and a decision of the su- 
preme court affirming its constitutionality was made, but 
without removing the discussion from the general assembly. 
Large additional appropriations for war purposes were freely 
made. An act was also passed limiting the cultivation of 
cotton, and appropriating a half million dollars to supply salt 
for the State. A hospital fund of four hundred thousand 
dollars was voted, and additional sums were appropriated for 
war purposes, amounting to six millions. 

9. Georgia had sent before the end of 1862, into the Con- 
federate army, seventy-five thousand men, and had eight 
thousand troops in State service. An armory had also been 
established in the penitentiary for the manufacture of arms, 



1863.] ^VA/^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 283 

factories and tanneries were seized and set under State au- 
thority, arrangements made for purchase and manufacture of 
salt, and numerous other measures adopted to sustain the 
State in this time of war. 

10. The year of 1863 was Hkewise disastrous to the Con- 
federacy. January i, 1863, President Lincohi issued a proc- 
lamation emancipating all the slaves in the seceded States. 
During 1863, Confederate money continued to depreciate in 
value rapidly, until twenty-one Confederate dollars were 
equal to only one gold dollar. Property, except lands and 
slaves, increased correspondingly in value. The public debt 
of the State of Georgia reached over fourteen million dollars. 

11. Of all the Southern States which had been engaged in 
the war, Georgia showed the greatest death-roll, as the sad 
honor of heroic devotion. Georgia's loss by death of soldiers 
was already nine thousand. Alabama and South Carolina 
had lost eight thousand each, and other states had suffered 
less. 

12. In 1863, Colonel Streight, with a band of Federal cav- 
alry, made a raid in Georgia. General Forrest pursued him, 
and after several engagements, finally compelled him to sur- 
render at the city of Rome. February 27, 1863, four Fed- 
eral gunboats attacked the Confederate steamer Nashville that 
had gone aground at Fort McAllister, at the mouth of the 
Ogeechee River, near Savannah. The Nashville was fired 
and destroyed. 

13. Fort McAllister was attacked by seven Federal gun- 
boats, in March, 1863. The bombardment lasted eight hours 
without effect, and finally the attacking fleet was driven away, 
in a crippled condition. This was a splendid achievement, 
and the State rang with praises of the Fort. By special 
order, the garrison were authorized to inscribe on its flag: 
''Fort McAllister, March 3, 1863." 

14. The condition of public affairs at the beginning of 



284 STUDENT' S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1863. 

1863, required a special session of the legislature, and conse- 
quently the governor issued his proclamation convening the 
general assembly March 25, 1863. Among the questions to 
be considered, none were of more importance than that pro- 
viding subsistence for the soldiers and people. Legislation to 
encourage the extensive cultivation of corn and wheat, in ex- 
clusion of cotton, was resorted to. An appropriation of two 
and a half millions was made to be used in aid of suffering 
families of absent soldiers. The beneficiary roll had already 
grown large. Over forty-five thousand children, including 
eight thousand orphans, and four thousand widows, besides 
five hundred maimed soldiers, were to be provided for. 
Special inducements were offered to volunteers, in legislative 
pledges, to provide for the families of the slain. 

15. The Federal armies continued to increase, while the 
Confederate forces diminished. Hoqker had been defeated 
at Chancellorsville, losing seventeen thousand men, but 
Lee's advance into Pennsylvania had received a bloody 
check at Gettysburg. 

16. On the other hand. Grant and Sherman had captured 
Vicksburg, and twenty-seven thousand men. Port Hudson 
had surrendered, and the Federals had overrun Tennessee. 

17. In April, 1863, John B. Gordon was commissioned 
brigadier-general. He became one of the most famous and 
brilliant officers that the South had during the war. 

18. In October, 1863, the regular election of governor oc- 
curred. Governor Brown had already served three terms, 
but he was urged to be a candidate for reelection. The Op- 
position nominated Joshua Hill. Timothy Furlow was also 
a candidate. The race excited litde interest. Governor 
Brown was reelected by a majority of five thousand eight 
hundred over both candidates. This was the unprecedented 
honor of a fourth term as Governor of Georgia. At the same 
election, Julian Hartridge, W. E. Smith, M. H. Blanford, 



t863.] 



WAR BETWEEN THE STATES. 



285 



Clifford Anderson, J. T. Shewmake, J, H. Echols, James M. 
Smith, George N. Lester, H. P. Bell, and Warren Akin, were 
elected to the Confederate Congress. 

19. The legislature of 1863 authorized the enrollment of 
all militia, between sixteen and sixty years, and the governor 
was given power to call them out if necessary. The Confed- 
erate authorities called on Georgia for eight thousand home 
guards, and eighteen 

thousand offered them- 
selves as volunteers. 

20. Major -General 
Howell Cobb was as- 
signed to the command 
of Georgia, September 
14, 1863. 

21. General A. R. 
Lawton was appointed 
quarter-master general of 
the Confederate army in 
August, 1863. General 
Lawton enjoyed a mili- 
tary education, and his 
abilities were brought 
into service immediately 
after the secession of his 
State. He was first in 
command of the department of Savannah, and afterward, at 
his own request, was placed in command of a new and splendid 
brigade of Georgians. He bore a gallant part in the bat- 
tles around Richmond, and in subsequent battles, until 
severely wounded at Sharpsburg. The Confederate Gov- 
ernment now demanded his services as quarter-master gen- 
eral, notwithstanding his express desire to return to the 
field. 

22. The year closed disastrously for the South. The 




A. R. Lawton. 



28G STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1864. 

Confederate army defeated at Missionary Ridge, was lying 
at Dalton, Georgiaj fortified and recuperating, while at 
Chattanooga a large force of Federals was threatening Geor- 
gia with invasion. 

23. The war was now concentrated to Virginia and Geor- 
gia, and 1864 was to witness its most heroic struggle. The 
hope of the Southern cause was focalized in Georgia. 




1864.] JVAJ{! BETWEEN THE STATES. 287 




CHAPTER LVI. 

1864. 

Battle of Olustee.— Johnston and Lee in Command of Southern Army.— 
Sherman and Grant in Command of Federal Forces.— Plan of Cam- 
paign for 1864.— Sherman Leaves Chattanooga.— Attack at Dalton.— 
Attack at Resaca.— New Hope Church.— Battle of Kennesaw Moun- 
tain.— Hood Placed in Command of Southern Army.— Hood's Attack 
on Sherman.— Stoneman and McCook.— Further Attack on Federal 
Forces.— Bombardment and Evacuation of Atlanta.— Hood's Campaign 
into Tennessee. 

HE operations of 1864 began with the invasion of 
Florida by six thousand Federals, under General 
Seymour. At Olustee, or Ocean Pond, February 
20, 1864, they were met by six thousand Confederates, 
under General Alfred H. Colquitt, and completely 
defeated. For this brilliant victory, General Colquitt 
has been called the ''hero of Olustee." 

2. After the battle of Missionary Ridge, the Southern army 
had recoiled to Dalton, and General Bragg resigned its com- 
mand. General Hardee succeeded him for a short while, 
when General Joseph E. Johnston was placed in command. 
Meanwhile, the magnificent Federal army was at Chattanooga, 
ready to march. 

3. In March, 1864, General Ulysses S. Grant was put in 
command of all Federal forces, and planned two campaigns, 
one under himself, against Richmond, the other under General 
W. T. Sherman, against Atlanta. These were the two pivotal 
points on which the war turned. Lee was in defense of Rich- 
mond; the Confederate army at Dalton, under Johnston, 
opposed Sherman. Both campaigns were to begin the same 
day. 



288 STUDENTS HISTORY OF GEORGIA, [1864. 

4. The legislature of Georgia was called together, and a 
message sent to them by Governor Brown, which was a fine 
piece of heroic composition, and was enthusiastically read all 
over the South. 

5. Grant, seated on a log by the roadside, in Virginia, 
wrote a despatch to Sherman that he was going to Richmond, 
and directed him to start at once to Atlanta. May 4, 1864, 
Sherman, in command of the Federal forces, began his march 
from Chattanooga with nearly one hundred thousand men 
and two hundred and fifty cannon. On the same day Grant 
crossed the Rapidan, towards Richmond. General Johnston 
had brought his army up to its best state of efficiency, and 
had forty-three thousand men, but the Federal army more 
than doubled it. Sherman's object was to- provoke an en- 
gagement with Johnston, and crush him at a blow, which 
Johnston intended to avoid. 




Attack at Dalton. 

6. Sherman made a -vigorous attack on Johnston's strong 
position in front of Dalton, and sent General McPherson 
around to Resaca, eighteen miles below. This would have 
flanked Johnston, but he had foreseen the movement, and 
fortified Resaca too strongly to be taken. Johnston then 
withdrew his army from Dalton, and retired with all his force 
to Resaca. 

7. May 14, 1864, Sherman made an attack on Johnston's 
army at Resaca. At the same time he endeavored to cross 
the river, in which he succeeded, but did not advance upon 



1864.] ^^^^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 289 



Calhoun, where Johnston had placed his reserves. The Fed- 
erals were repulsed in the attack upon Resaca, with a loss of 
five thousand men, while Johnston's loss was inconsiderable. 
To avoid another flank movement, Johnston fell back to 
Cassville, leaving Rome to the Federals. Here having a 
strong position, he determined to give battle; but, being ad- 
vised by leading generals that they could not hold their posi- 
tions, Johnston abandoned his intention. 

8. Sherman made another flank movement toward Dallas, 
but Johnston interposed his army at New Hope Church, and 
here a number of bloody engagements occurred daily, from 
May 26, 1864, to June 4, in which Johnston repulsed every 
assault. 

9. Still pursuing his flank movements, Sherman moved 
around Johnston's army, and the two were again brought 
face to face, the Federals at Acworth, the Confederates at 
Marietta. Johnston, taking a fine position among the mount- 
ains, determined to make a stand, and Sherman resolved to 
break through by force. The battle beginning June 9, 1864, 
was fierce and desperate, and continued for twenty-three days. 
Repeatedly the Federal force dashed against the Southern 
positions, and was repeatedly hurled back. June 14, Gen- 
eral Polk was killed, and was succeeded by General Loring. 
Finally Johnston abandoned Pine Mountain and Lost Mount- 
ain, and concentrated his forces around Kennesaw Mountain 
in a strong position. Sherman returned to the assault, but 
Johnston could not be forced back. 

10. Satisfied with attacking, Sherman sent McPherson to 
flank Johnston by crossing the Chattahoochee River. But 
Johnston detected the movement, and drew his forces out of 
danger. July 9, 1864, he crossed the river in splendid order, 
leaving nothing behind. 

11. July 17, 1864, Johnston was removed from command, 
and General Hood, a brave and gallant officer, placed in 

25 



290 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1864. 



charge. Up to that time, Johnston's army had lost ten thou- 
sand men, while Sherman had lost forty thousand. 

12. Atlanta was being fortified as strongly as the limited 
troops and resources made it possible. Over ten thousand 
militia were organized and placed in the trenches under 
Major-General G. W. Smith. Cannon had been placed in 
position, and military stores collected. 

13. Hood at once began to assume the aggressive. July 

20, 1864, two days after 
\ he had taken command, 

' ".^^ -^ he attacked Sherman's 

army, and a bloody battle 
of five hours ensued. But 
Hood was repulsed with a 
loss of five thousand, while 
the Federals lost only sev- 
enteen hundred. On the 
night of the 2 ist, he again 
moved forward to the at- 
tack, and one of the 
fiercest battles of the war 
occurred. General James 
B. McPherson was killed, 
and several batteries cap- 
tured by the Confederates. A monument in the woods not 
far from Atlanta, marks the spot where McPherson fell. 
General W. H. T. Walker was also killed. General John M. 
Brown, the brother of Governor Brown, was severely wounded. 
He was conveyed to the executive mansion, in Milledgeville, 
where he died, July 25, 1864. 

14. Generals Stoneman and McCook were sent out by the 
Federals, on raids through the State, but their commands were 
surrounded. McCook escaped, but Stoneman surrendered 
six hundred men to the Confederates under General Alfred 
Iverson. Stoneman had attacked Macon, but was driven 




Impromptu Fortification. 



1864.] . IVA/^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 291 

back by the militia under Governor Brown and General 
Howell Cobb. 

15. July 28, 1864, General Hood made another desperate 
but unsuccessful attempt on Sherman's army. August 5, 
1864, Schofield attacked Hood, but was repulsed, losing 
four hundred men. 

16. General Sherman, from his position, constantly bom- 
barded Atlanta. His batteries threw shot and shell all over 
the city, and the people were panic-stricken, leaving their 
homes, living in cellars and railroad cuts, and using every 
means to escape the destructive fire. 

17. General Sherman moved steadily and cautiously to the 
west sid-e of Atlanta, tore up the West Point Road, and find- 
ing General Hardee at Jonesboro, attacked him with great 
vigor. The fight was desperate, but Hardee was forced to 
retreat, and leave the field to Sherman. This opened the 
road to Atlanta, and Hood was obliged to evacuate that city. 

18. As soon as General Sherman entered x^tlantahe ordered 
all the citizens to leave, and notified General Hood that 
they and all their baggage would be sent down to Rough and 
Ready. General Hood protested against this harsh treat- 
ment, and a sharp controversy ensued. But Sherman was 
relentless, and about sixteen hundred people were exiled 
from their homes. 

19. As soon as Hood had evacuated Atlanta, he projected 
a campaign into Tennessee, intending to force Sherman to 
abandon Georgia. September 28, 1864, he began his march, 
crossed the Chattahoochee River, and sent General French 
to capture Altoona, where Sherman's supplies were placed. 
French made the attack, but Altoona was too strongly forti- 
fied, and he was repulsed with loss. Advancing upon Resaca, 
he tore up twenty miles of the railroad, and captured Dal- 
ton. 

20. Sherman then left Atlanta and marched against Hood 



292 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1864. 

to force a battle, but failing in this he sent General Thomas 
to follow him into Tennessee, while he himself returned. 

21. Hood marched on into Tennessee, attacked the Fed- 
eral forces at several places, and gained slight victories. 
Sherman destroyed all the railroads, and devastated the coun- 
try around Atlanta. That city he left in ashes, — only four 
hundred houses out of five thousand were left standing. 




[864.] IVAR BETWEEN THE STATES. 293 




CHAPTER LVII. 

1864—1865. 

Destructive " March to the Sea."— Excitement at Milledgeville.— Sherman 
at Savannah.— Fort McAllister Captured. — Hood's Defeat in Tennessee. 
—Suffering in State During 1864.— Meeting of Georgia Legislature.— 
Hampton Roads Controversy. — ^Johnston Reinstated in Command.— 
Lee's Surrender at Appomattox Court House. — Assassination of Lin- 
coln. — Surrender of Johnston. — Davis at Washington, Georgia — Arrest 
and Imprisonment of Davis and Stephens. — Specie. — Toombs' Escape. — 
Brow^n's Arrest.— Resignation as Governor. 

ExWING all but sixty thousand men in Atlanta, 
Sherman started in November, 1864, on his fa- 
mous march to the sea. His column covered a 
front of forty miles, and on the march destroyed 
villages, farms, and houses; took all the stock and provis- 
ions, and ruined the portion of the State through which they 
went. Sherman's purpose was to make Georgia feel the 
weight of war. His march was unopposed, as only small 
bands of militia were now available for defense of the State. 

2, November 23, 1864, a telegram reached Governor 
Brown, at Milledgeville, that Sherman had left Atlanta, and 
might soon be expected in that city. The legislature was in 
session at the time, but had adjourned for dinner when the 
telegram arrived. The city was filled with excitement. The 
legislators did not return to the capital. Every conveyance 
was bought, even at fabulous prices, and the people left the 
city tumultuously. 

3. Governor Brown gave orders to General Foster to se- 
cure the removal of the State property at the capital, consist- 
ing of records and State papers, also the furniture of the ex- 
ecutive mansion, and the property at the arsenal, penitentiary, 
and armory. Many books and papers were carried to the 



204 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1865. 

lunatic asylum, as it was thought that Sherman would not 
burn that place. The other property was put on the cars 
and shipped to Macon, or South Georgia. Such was the 
scarcity of labor that Governor Brown was forced to call on 
the convicts for assistance. Finally, Governor Brown, his 
family, and the officers, left the city just as Sherman's ad- 
vanced cavalry entered it. 

4. Leaving Milledgeville, Sherman proceeded through the 
State, and reached Savannah, December 10, 1864. Fort 
McAUister was captured December 13th, by General Hazen, 
after a gallant resistance on the part of Major George W. 
Anderson and his two hundred and fifty men. Savannah 
was defended by General Hardee, with ten thousand troops, 
who, finding his force too small to cope with Sherman's army, 
quietly withdrew into South Carolina. Sherman then entered 
the city, and completed his destructive march to the sea. 

5. About the sanie time. Hood had a severe conflict with 
Thomas, in Tennessee, in which the Confederate army was 
almost annihilated, broken into fragments, and driven back 
into Georgia. 

6. This defeat of Hood, and capture of Georgia, were fatal 
blows to the already declining Confederate cause. 

7. The State had suffered greatly during the year 1864. 
The public debt was now the enormous sum of nearly 
twenty-four million dollars. About one hundred and twenty 
thousand indigent persons were on the State for help. Med- 
icine, and all articles of food and clothing were very costly, 
as forty-nine dollars of Confederate money equaled only one 
gold dollar. A hat was worth two or three hundred dollars, 
a horse several thousand, and all necessaries of life were val- 
ued in proportion. Notwithstanding these high prices, sol- 
dier's pay was only eleven dollars per month — hardly enough 
to buy a loaf of bread. 

8. The Georgia legislature convened at Macon, at call of 



1865.] IVAJ^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 295 

the governor, February 15, 1865. This was the last session 
under the Confederate government. The message of the 
governor was full of patriotism, and addresses of encourage- 
ment were made by General Cobb, Benjamin H. Hill, and 
William H. Stiles. 

9. Sherman remained in Savannah until January 19, 1865, 
then marched into South Carolina, and continued the work 
of destruction. 

10. February 3, 1865, occurred the Hampton Roads con- 
troversy, between President Lincoln and Mr. Seward for the 
North, and Alexander Stephens, Mr. Hunter, and Judge 
Campbell for the South. But the conference was fruitless, 
and the war went on. 

11. February 23, 1865, General Joseph E. Johnston was 
placed in command of the fragment of Hood's army. Lee 
meanwhile had been engaging Grant, in Virginia. But the 
superior numbers of the Federal armies made Southern skill 
and courage useless. In the beginning of 1865, Lee was 
closely pressed at Richmond; Sherman held Georgia and 
Carohna, and the war was drawing to a close. 

12. Lee's line around Petersburg was broken April 2, 
1865, and after seven days of fighting, against great odds, 
Lee surrendered at Appomattox Court House, April 9, 1865. 
His whole force numbered ten thousand, while the Federals 
had nearly one hundred and fifty thousand. Richmond was 
abandoned, and President Davis, with his cabinet, withdrew 
from Virginia. 

13. Soon after Lee's surrender, an unfortunate tragic event 
occurred. President Lincoln was assassinated in Ford's 
Theater by John Wilkes Booth, an actor of note. Booth 
was pursued and shot for his crime. Andrew Johnson, the 
Vice-President, became President of the United States. 

14. General Joseph E. Johnston had tried in vain to op- 
pose Sherman in South Carolina. That State was ravaged, 



296 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1865. 

Columbia burned, and Johnston forced to surrender April 
26, 1865. This ended the war. 

15. President Davis, with a number of friends, went 
South, on their way to Texas, and in May the party reached 
Washington, Georgia, the home of Robert Toombs. Here 
were assembled the Confederate cabinet, with General I.aw- 
ton. General Bragg, and others, in the last conference of 
the Confederate States. After a day the cabinet broke up, 
and the parties separated. President Davis went into the 
interior of Georgia, but was captured at Irwinsville on the 
loth of May, by two hundred Federal cavalry under Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel Pritchard. He was carried to Fortress Mon- 
roe, and held in prison, without trial, for nearly two years. 
Alexander Stephens was also arrested and imprisoned, but 
released not long afterward. 

16. While President Davis and his cabinet were in Wash- 
ington, Georgia, a train of wagons containing a large sum of 
specie, belonging to the Confederate government, arrived. 
Some of the specie was in bars of gold, and the balance was 
in coin. By direction of General Breckenridge muster rolls 
of troops were made out, and over one hundred thousand 
dollars of the money was thus distributed. 

17. Major R. J. Moses, who had charge of the train, was 
directed to utilize forty thousand dollars of the bullion to pro- 
vide rations for the troops who were returning from the war. 
With about thirty thousand dollars Major Moses went to Au- 
gusta, and delivered his charge to General Molineux, on con- 
dition that it be distributed among the disabled and sick sol- 
diers who were returning from the war. These benevolent 
orders concerning this money were the last official acts of the 
Confederacy. 

18. Soon after the departure of President Davis from 
Washington, a Federal soldier came to the door of General 
Robert Toombs' home, and rang the bell. The general 



1865.] PVA/^ BETWEEN THE STATES. 297 

answered the bell himself, and the soldier informed him that 
he was in search of General Toombs, and wanted to know 
if he was at home. Politely asking the soldier in, the gen- 
eral told him he would tell Mr. Toombs of his visit. Then 
going to the back yard he leaped on one of his horses, and 
made good his escape. His wife detained the soldier on 
various pretenses for over an hour, until her husband was 
beyond pursuit. General Toombs went to England, where 
he remained a number of years. 

19. Georgia had sent one hundred and twenty thousand 
soldiers to the field during the war, and had suffered propor- 
tionate greater losses than any other State in the Confeder- 
acy. The property of the State was reduced five hundred 
million dollars in value. It was now in the hands of the 
Federal army. Colonel Eggleston was placed in command 
of Atlanta; General Upton, of Augusta; General Croxton, 
of Macon; Major M. H. Williams, of Milledgeville. The 
State troops had all surrendered, and received their paroles 
from General Wilson. 

20. Governor Brown called a meeting of the legislature, 
but it did not assemble, as General Wilson, the Federal com- 
mander, issued an order declaring that ' ' Neither the legis- 
lature nor any other political body will be permitted to as- 
semble under the call of the rebel State authorities." 

21. In some instances the Federals acted with gallantry 
and kindness. All the Confederate horses, mules, and 
wagons were turned over for distribution among the poor. 
Thirty thousand bushels of corn were distributed by Federal 
orders among the destitute people of North Georgia. 

22. Alexander Stephens, Howell Cobb, B. H. Hill, and 
Governor Brown were all arrested by Federal authority. 
Governor Brown had received his parole, and returned to 
Milledgeville. Soon after, a Federal force surrounded the 
executive mansion, took away the governor's parole, carried 



298 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1865. 



him to Washington City, and put him in Carroll prison. 
Here he was kept for a week, and was released by President 
Johnson. 

23. When Governor Brown returned to Georgia, he found 
that General Wilson refused to allow him to act as governor, 
and being thus cut off from executive duty by Federal au- 
thority, he resigned his office. He then issued an address 
to the people, advising them to make the most of the situa- 
tion, to acquiesce in the abolition of slavery, to cordially 
support the administration of President Johnson, and to re- 
construct the State, and be restored to the Union as early as 
possible. 




United We Stand Divided We FaU. 



1865.] RECONSTRUCTION. 299 




CHAPTER LVIII. 

1865-1867. 

Reconstruction. — James Johnson, Governor. — Military Rule. — A Conven- 
tion.— Jenkins Governor. — Thirteenth Amendment Ratified. — Note- 
worthy Events. — Congress and President Johnson's Controversy. — 
Congress Inflamed Against Georgia. — Brown and Jenkins. — Benjamin 
Hill Against Reconstruction. 

HE war between the States was now over, but the 
dark period of reconstruction had commenced. The 
regular government of the State was displaced, and 
.4r in June, 1865, James Johnson, of Columbus, was ap- 
pointed by the President of the United States the pro- 
visional governor of Georgia. Assuming the office at 
once, he issued a proclamation from Milledgeville, announc- 
ing his appointment, and calling a convention to meet in the 
following October. 

2. A period of military rule followed, during which the 
Federal authorities were often unwise and unjust. Rash ar- 
rests of citizens were made, and harsh punishments inflicted. 
Adventurers also flocked into the State, and obtaining petty 
offices, galled the people so that reconstruction and recon- 
ciliation was hindered. An oath, called the Amnesty oath, 
was required to be taken by all citizens in order to exercise 
any privileges. Nearly all accepted these terms, and tak- 
ing the oath, endeavored to resume their occupations in 
peace. 

3. The convention called by Governor Johnson met in 
October, 1865, and elected Herschel V. Johnson president. 
In two weeks' session, certain highly important measures were 



300 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1865. 



passed. The ordinance of secession was repealed, the war 
debt was repudiated, slavery was aboHshed, and a new con- 
stitution adopted. An election for governor and congress- 
men was also ordered to be held in the following November, 
when Charles J. Jenkins was chosen governor, without oppo- 
sition. 

4. The State legislature which met at Milledgeville, in De- 
cember, of this year, was composed largely of old citizens of 

the State. Governor 
Johnson's message in- 
formed the legislature 
that he would continue 
to act as governor until 
the election of Jenkins 
was recognized by the 
United States govern- 
ment. This formality 
being complied with, 
Jenkins was duly inaug- 
urated governor of Geor- 
gia, December 14, 1865. 

5. This noble man was 
born in South Carolina, 
January, 1805, came to 
Georgia in 18 16, and 
setded in Jefferson 
County. Having grad- 
uated with honor at Union College, N. Y. , he began practic- 
ing law at Sandersville, but in 1829 he removed to Augusta. 
Here he was frequently sent to the legislature, and in 1831 
became attorney-general of the State. He was now raised 
to the high office of governor. 

6. No nobler man has yet adorned this State than Charles 
J. Jenkins. He possessed rare intellectual gifts, trained both 




Charles J. Jenkins. 



i866.] ADMINISTRATION OF JENKINS. 301 



in early education, and by long mental culture. He was an 
able jurist and a true patriot. 

7. This legislature of 1865, ratified the thirteenth amend- 
ment to the Constitution of the United States forbidding 
slavery. The relation of the State to the lately freed negroes 
was seriously considered, and an effort was made to provide 
for their welfare. This proposed adjustment, however, was 
prevented by the course of political events, under the pas- 
sions of the times. 

8. Among the noteworthy events of the session was the 
election of Alexander H. Stephens and Herschel V. Johnson, 
United States Senators, but they were not permitted by Con- 
gress to take their seats. The State debt was ascertained to 
be nearly seven milHon dollars, and great financial trouble 
was feared. Destitution of food and clothing existed in many 
parts of the State, and relief was sought from many 
sources. 

9. The memorable controversy between President John- 
son and Congress, in regard to the reconstruction of the 
Southern States, occurred in 1866. After the seceding States 
had complied with the terms of peace by annulling their se- 
cession ordinances, many proceeded to elect senators and 
representatives in the Congress of the United States. When 
Congress met in 1866, the Republican members objected to 
the admission of these new Congressmen until their respect- 
ive States should ratify the fourteenth amendment to the Con- 
stitution of the United States, which conferred citizenship on 
the slave population lately made free. The seceding States, 
except Tennessee, still refused to ratify this amendment. 
Congress therefore declared Georgia and the other recusant 
States to be still in the state of rebellion. The people of 
these States had abolished slavery, had ratified the thirteenth 
amendment which forbade slavery forever, and were proceed- 
ing to make laws for the protection of the colored people. 

26 



302 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1866. 



They were opposed, however, to conferring citizenship and 
suffrage upon them until they became better prepared for 
these great privileges. 

10. The people of Georgia were provoked to extreme 
measures in opposition to the reconstruction policy of the 
general government. Judge Walker, of the supreme court, 
and ex-Governor Brown, went to Washington on the mis- 
sion of reconciliation. But finding the temper of Congress 

unchangeable, they re- 
turned. Brown a d- 
dressed a letter to the 
people, explaining the 
state of affairs, and rec- 
ommending a full ac- 
ceptance of all the terms 
of restoration at once. 
For this advice he was 
severely censured by 
many. An unfriendly 
feeling toward him was 
created, that lasted for 
years. 

11. Governor Jenkins 
also went to Washington 
City, and began proceed- 
ings to test tne constitu- 
tionality of the meas- 
ures which conferred 
upon colored men the power to vote and hold ofifice, while 
depriving large numbers of white citizens of the same privi- 
leges. From that city, he addressed a pubUc letter to Geor- 
gia, in which he advised ''a firm but temperate refusal of 
acquiescence" to the demands of Congress. He thus di- 
rectly opposed the views of Governor Brown. However, 
his legal proceedings failed, being dismissed by the court. 




Benjamin H. HiH. 



1867. 



ADMINISTRATION OF JENKINS. 



303 



12. Benjamin H. Hill also threw the weight of his great 
name against the proposed reconstruction. His wonderful 
eloquence appeared in its greatest splendor in the speeches 
of this period. He also wrote a series of papers called 
"Notes on the Situation," which excited great influence. 




304 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1867. 



CHAPTER LIX. 

1867—1870. 

General Pope in Command.— Convention.— Jenkins Deposed.— Ruger De- 
tailed. — Bullock Elected. — Presidential Election. — Union League and 
Ku Klux. — Asburn Case. — Fourteenth Amendment Ratified. — Expul- 
sion of Colored Members. — Colored Convention — Congressional Ac- 
tion. — The State again under Military. — The Disorderly Legislature. — 
State Restored. — Western and Atlantic Railroad Lease. — Census of 1870. 

EORGIA at this time was placed under the military 
command of General John Pope, to secure the adop- 
tion of the reconstruction measures. General Pope, 
therefore, ordered an election for a State convention, at which 
few white votes were cast. The Democratic party held a 
party convention in December, 1867, of which Benjamin H. 
Hill was made president. This was the first pohtical con- 
vention held after the war. This body arrayed itself against 
General Pope's movement, and adopted as the Democratic 
policy: ''Non-action as against Congress, but vigorous devel- 
opment of the special interests of the State." Resolutions 
were passed declaring the reconstruction measures to be un- 
just, unwise, and cruel. 

2. The State convention, called by General Pope, met in 
Atlanta, December, 1867. Many counties had pursued "the 
non-action policy," and were either not represented or were 
represented by inferior men. One-sixth of the body were 
colored men. The convention sat until March, 1868, in- 
cluding a two weeks' recess in January, during which time it 
fell into general odium. 

3. General Pope having been relieved of the military 
charge of Georgia, General Meade was placed in command 
in December of this year, while the convention was in ses- 



1 868.] AD MINIS TRA TION OF B ULL CK. 305 

sion. The convention needing money to pay its expenses, 
directed the State treasurer to pay out forty thousand dollars 
for its use, which the treasurer decHned to do except by the 
order of the governor. The question being now referred to 
General Meade, he immediately wrote a request to Governor 
Jenkins to draw the amount by his warrant out of the State 
treasury. Jenkins declining to obey this military demand, 
was at once removed from office by orders from Meade, and 
General Ruger was detailed to act as governor. All State 
officers were likewise removed, and their places filled by 
military details. 

4. Governor Jenkins being thus deposed, went to Washing- 
ton City for redress. He took with him the Great Seal of 
State, and also the States' money, four hundred thousand 
dollars, which he placed in a New York bank to pay on the 
debt. He again filed a bill in the Supreme Court of the 
United States, complaining that certain military officers had il- 
legally seized the property of the State. This suit met with 
no more success than the first. 

5. The convention being still in session during these 
events, provided for an election for governor to take place in 
April, 1 868. The Republican party nominated Rufus B. 
Bullock, and the Democrats put forward General John B. 
Gordon. The new constitution, framed by the convention, 
was also submitted to the vote of the people, and was rati- 
fied. The election for governor resulted in the defeat of 
Gordon by a small majority. In this election large num- 
bers of the best men of the State were deprived of their 
votes. General Gordon was afterward elected United States 
Senator. The presidential election also occurred this year. 
The contest was between Seymour and Blair, the Democratic 
nominees, and Grant and Colfax, the Republican candidates. 
The latter ticket was elected by a large majority. 

6. A society called the Union League, formed in the in- 
terests of the Republican party, arose about this time. It 



306 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1868. 

was a secret political order designed to influence elections. 
The Ku Klux Clan was also spoken of at the same time. 
It probably had no organized existence, but in its name some 
evils were done by violent men. Serious local troubles 
among neighbors holding opposite political views occurred in 
various counties. The times were disordered, and produced 
the usual effects. A noted event was the killing of Ashburn, 
and the arraignment of several persons in Columbus accused 
of his murder. Governor Brown was employed to prose- 
cute the prisoners, but the case was held up until military 
rule was replaced by civil authority in the State, and then the 
accused were released. 

7. The legislature of July, 1868, chose Benjamin Conley 
president of the senate, and R. L. McWhorter speaker of the 
house. This legislature ratified ''The Fourteenth Amend- 
ment," which had been hitherto rejected, and the State was 
thus brought again into the Union. Bullock was then inaug- 
urated governor. General Meade also issued an address 
declaring military authority at an end. 

8. A highly exciting issue was made in this legislature on 
the proposed expulsion of the colored members. The debate on 
the resolution was protracted and warm. Governor Bullock sent 
a message strongly opposing the expulsion, and his interfer- 
ence was quickly rebuked by the house. The vote was finally 
taken, and the twenty-five colored members were unseated. 
Considerable excitement followed this legislative action. 

9. In the fall a colored convention sat in Macon, with 
closed doors. Speeches were made against the act of the 
legislature in unseating colored members, and a memorial 
was prepared and conveyed to Congress. When the subject 
came before Congress, Charles Sumner, of Massachusetts, 
offered a resolution to remand Georgia again to military rule. 
The Congressional committee on reconstruction also took up 
the question. Governor Bullock advised that a test oath 
be administered to members of the legislature, the effect of 



1 870.] ADMINISTRA TION OF BULLO CK. 307 

which would be to exclude many white men from their seats. 
At last a resolution was passed in Congress declaring Georgia 
again in rebellion, and remanding it to a provincial govern- 
ment. After much trouble had ensued, the Supreme Court 
in June, 1869, decided that negroes were eligible under the 
constitutional amendments to hold offices in the State, and 
this seemed to end the dispute. 

10. A deputation, however, was appointed in November, 
1869, by the Repubhcan executive committee, to urge Con- 
gress to place the State again under Federal control. Gov- 
ernor Bullock also visited Washington, and procured the 
passage of a bill requiring the governor to convene the leg- 
islature, and providing that all members take the amnesty 
oath, the colored members be reseated, and the fifteenth 
amendment be ratified before the State could be entitled to 
Senators and Representatives in Congress. 

11. General Alfred Terry was ' accordingly appointed com- 
mander of the district of Georgia. Bullock signed his name 
as provisional governor. The legislature called under these 
laws met in January, 1870, and proceeded amidst great dis- 
order to attempt an organization. It broke up on the first 
day in great confusion. The disgraceful tumult continued 
for some time. The house was at length formed, the mem- 
bers sworn, and a speaker elected. Thirty-one colored mem- 
bers were reseated, and twenty-four Democrats were put out 
of place. This legislature ratified the Fifteenth Amendment 
to the Constitution of the United States. 

12. The manner in which this body had been organized 
attracted the attention of Congress. The judiciary committee 
was directed to inquire into the organization, and their re- 
port pronounced it an improper, illegal, and arbitrary pro- 
ceeding. Governor Bullock was censured, and a bill was 
passed reciting these irregularities, and providing for a new 
and fair election. Another bill was introduced for the resto- 
ration of Georgia to the Union, which passed, and was signed 



308 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1870. 

by President Grant, July, 1870. Thus Georgia was again in 
the Union, the last of the seceded States to be fully rein- 
stated, all others having been reconstructed and re-admitted. 
In November, Governor Bullock was again elected governor 
under the provisions of this new act. 

13. The Western and Atlantic Railroad was leased De- 
cember 27, 1870, to a company for twenty years, for which 
the company pay twenty-five thousand dollars per month 
rental. Joseph E. Brown, who, as former governor, had 
managed the road with great wisdom, was elected president 
of the new company. This fine property had been reduced 
to a deplorable state by mismanagement, and was now leased 
so as to bring a very considerable revenue to the State. 

14. A look at the census of 1870 shows the population of 
Georgia in whites and colored to be one million one hundred 
and eighty-four thousand one hundred and nine persons, be- 
ing a slight increase since i860. 

The taxable property, however, had fallen two-thirds in 
value, amounting now to only two hundred and ten million 
dollars. This decrease is owing to the loss in slave prop- 
erty and the diminished value in farming lands. 

But manufacturing had increased to nearly four thousand 
factories of various kinds, employing about fifteen thousand 
laborers. 

15. Cotton production had also slightly increased. The 
State was now producing five hundred thousand bales. 
Greater interest was also taken in the cultivation of cereals 
and fruits. The people were generally poor, and had been 
disheartened by the instability of the State government, and 
discouraged by many disappointments of their hope of re- 
turning prosperity. The towns and cities began to show 
signs of growth, and the native energy of Georgians was ex- 
pressing itself in various attempts at improved manufactur- 
ing, mining, and farming, but under the depressing disad- 
vantage of the lack of capital. 



1 87 1.] ADMINISTRATION OF CONIEY. 309 




CHAPTER LX. 

1871—1875. 

Governor Bullock Resigns. — Conley acts asGovernor. — Smith Elected. — Con- 
dition of the State.— Fraudulent Bonds.— State College of Agriculture. 
—The Great Seal.— Presidential Race.— Smith Re-elected Governor.— 
Public School Fund.— Supreme Court Judges.— Gordon Elected Sen- 
ator.— State Geologist.— Convicts. 

HE rare event of a governor's abiiication of his office 
occurred in this State, October, 1871. Governor Bul- 
lock, at this date, wrote his resignation, turned the 
government over to Benjamin Conley, president of 
the senate, and privately left the State. His flight 
produced a profound sensation throughout the Union, but 
he remained away unmolested until late in 1872, when, on 
investigation, a legislative committee reported that he was in 
default to the State sixty thousand dollars. Upon this re- 
port an executive requisition was issued for his arrest, and 
sent to Governor Hoffman of New York, where he was sup- 
posed to be. But Bullock eluded arrest until 1876, when he 
returned to Georgia. His case was not brought to trial for 
two years, and then he was acquitted. 

2. The legislature met two days after the departure of 
Bullock, and found Benjamin Conley acting as governor. 
The house chose James M. Smith speaker, and the senate 
elected L. M. Trammell president. Governor Conley claimed 
the right to hold the office of governor, which Bullock had 
resigned, although he was no longer president of the senate. 
The claim was permitted by the legislature, but an election 
by the people was ordered to take place the following Decem- 
ber, to fill Bullock's unexpired term. James M. Smith was 



310 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1872. 

elected without opposition, and in January, 1872, was inaug- 
urated amidst general rejoicing. This legislature also elected 
Thomas M. Norwood United States Senator, who took his 
seat in December, 187 1. 

3. Governor Smith, elected under these strange circum- 
stances, had already served the State with honorable distinc- 
tion. Entering the service of the Confederacy early, he was 
promoted to colonel of the thirteenth Georgia regiment in 
Evans' Brigade, and receiving a disabling wound, was elected 
by his district to the Confederate Congress. Soon after the 
war closed, he took an active part in the restoration of his 
State. He was speaker of the house at the time of his elec- 
tion to the office of governor. 

4. Abuses of many kinds had crept into the State govern- 
ment, which the governor sought at once to reform. He in- 
troduced a better economy and a stricter enforcement of the 
criminal laws, in which he was aided by the legislature and 
judiciary. The public debt had become very great, but its 
extent was unknown at the beginning of this new administra- 
tion. The value of real estate had depreciated throughout 
the State; trade and agriculture were depressed. Many 
banks, unable to stand the financial pressure which was 
now increasing, had suspended payment, and amidst their 
new hopes, the people felt great anxieties. In order to ad- 
just the State's disordered finances, the legislature appointed a 
bond committee to investigate and report on the debt of the 
State by bonds. They reported that bonds to about the sum 
of eight million dollars were fraudulent, and these fraudulent 
bonds were declared by the legislature to have been null and 
void from the date of their issue. 

5. A noteworthy step in advancement of education was the 
opening in May, 1872, of ''the Georgia State College of Agri- 
Culture and Mechanical Arts," at Athens, under the control of 
the university. The money for this purpose was obtained 



1872.] ADMINISTRATION OF SMITH. 311 



by the sale of two hundred and seventy thousand acres of 
land, donated to Georgia by Congress in 1862, for educa- 
tional purposes. This land was sold by Governor Conley for 
ninety cents per acre, bringing two hundred and forty-three 
thousand dollars, which was applied to founding this college 
according to the conditions of the grant. 

6. The return of the Great Seal of State by ex-Governor 
Jenkins, was made an occasion of special interest. Military 
authority was ended, and the State was in the full enjoyment 
of its sovereignty. The absent seal which Jenkins had kept 
since his removal by General Meade, was now formally sur- 
rendered into the hand of Governor Smith. In restoring it he 
said that he derived satisfaction from the fact that it had never 
been "desecrated by the grasp of a military usurper's hand." 
The legislature soon after passed a resolution authorizing the 
governor to have made and presented to Jenkins a fac-simile 
of this Great Seal, with the additional inscription, "Presented 
to Charles J. Jenkins, by the State of Georgia ; " and also 
this motto : In arduis fidelis. The worthy honor was in due 
time appropriately conferred. 

7. The presidential contest of 1872 was between Horace 
Greeley, the nominee of the liberal Republicans, and General 
Grant, the nominee of the Republican party, resulting in the 
election of Grant. The Georgia democratic convention pledged 
its support to Greeley for president, and placed Governor 
Smith in nomination for reelection to the office of governor. 
He was opposed by Dawson Walker, but was elected by 
sixty thousand majority. The presidential vote of the State 
was cast for Greeley. 

8. The pubUc school fund received this year some acces- 
sion from various sources. The legislature appropriated all poll 
tax, all tax on liquors, shows and exhibitions, and one-half 
the rental of the Western and Atlantic railroad to this fund. 
By this means two hundred and fifty thousand dollars was dis- 



312 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1873. 



tributed among the counties to support the schools of 1873 
and 1874. This was inadequate to the need, but it served 
to awaken more general interest in the education of the peo- 
ple. As a result, the school commissioner who had been put 
in charge of this department, was able to report school organ- 
izations in every county, 
and public schools in 
one hundred and twenty- 
five counties. 

9. Among important 
appointments and elec- 
tions, were those of 
Judge McCay and Judge 
Trippe, to the supreme 
bench. Both of these 
judges resigned in 1875, 
and Governor Smith ap- 
pointed to the vacancies 
James Jackson and Lo- 
gan E. Bleckley, two of 
Georgia's able jurists. 
Governor Smith also ap- 
pointed Dr. Gustavus J. 
Orr, as state school com- 
missioner. This able man possesses great learning, energy, 
and ability, and during his entire administration, which con- 
tinues to the present day, public schools have flourished in 
every county of the State, and every child is given the bene- 
fits of a free school education. 

10. In 1873, General John B. Gordon was elected to the 
United States Senate. This brilliant soldier won the most 
honorable fame during the great civil war, and rose to such 
military distinction as to be second in the confidence of the 
army only to General Lee. After the war he was made 
the candidate for governor by the citizens of his State, who 




Dr. Gustavus J. Orr. 



1 874-] ADMINISTRATION OF SMITH. 313 

desired an immediate restoration of Georgia to the Union. 
His present election to the exalted office of senator, intro- 
duced him into a field of usefulness, where he again contrib- 
uted gready to the welfare and luster of the State. 

11. The office of State geologist was created in 1874, 
and Dr. George Little was appointed to the position. But, 
notwithstanding its growing usefulness, it was practically 
abandoned in 1879, by refusal of the legislature to make any 
appropriation to sustain it. The department of agriculture 
was also created in 1874. To this office Dr. Thomas O. 
Janes was appointed as State commissioner of agriculture. 
An appropriation of ten thousand dollars was made to meet 
the expenses of the department. 

12. The convict lease system which was inauguated in 
Bullock's administration, received the attention of the legisla- 
ture of 1874. The governor was authorized to lease out the 
convicts of the penitentiary for a term not less than one nor 
more than five years. The legislature of 1876 extended the 
time to twenty years. The law required the convicts to be 
humanely treated, to be worked ten hours a day, Sundays 
excepted, and to be provided with proper food, clothing, and 
sleeping places. Medical attendance was also assured for 
the sick, and other provisions were made to protect them from 
oppression while they justly bore the penalty due their 
crimes. It was made the duty of the principal keeper of the 
penitentiary and of the State's physician, to visit each camp 
monthly, and make written report of the treatment and con- 
dition of the convicts. 




27 



314 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1876. 




CHAPTER LXI. 

1876—1879. 

Colquitt Elected Governor. — Hayes, President.— Governor's Message.— 
State Convention of 1877.— Atlanta made the Capital.— Claims Col- 
lected.— North-Eastern Railroad.— Exciting Investigations.— Commis- 
sioners of Railroads. — Brown Appointed Senator. 

LFRED H. COLQUITT was unanimously by ac- 
clamation nominated candidate for governor by the 
Democratic convention of August, 1876. The 
election which followed in October, resulted in his 
victory over his opponent by a majority of nearly eighty 
thousand votes, the largest ever known in the State. The 
presidential election also taking place this year, the vote of 
Georgia was cast for Tilden. Rutherford B. Hayes was 
elected President of the United States. 

2. The legislature met January, 1877, and received the re- 
tiring message of Governor Smith, who now went out of office 
after an effective service in a critical period. During his 
term a marked improvement was made in the educational 
and industrial condition of the people. The laws were 
more faithfully executed; life, liberty, and property were 
better guarded. The public credit was restored, the bonds 
of the State rose to par value, and the State was relieved of 
a great fraudulent debt. 

3. Alfred H. Colquitt was inaugurated governor of Georgia 
January 12, 1877, and entered at once on the duties of his 
office. Governor Colquitt was born in 1824, in Walton 
County, the son of the illustrious statesman and jurist Walter 
T. Colquitt. He graduated at Princeton College, and began 
the practice of law. This profession, however, he aban- 



1 877-] ADMINISTRATION OF COLQUITT. 315 

doned, to devote himself to agriculture. In his earliest man- 
hood the Mexican war occurred, during which he served 
with the rank of major. Called early afterward into polit- 
ical life, he led his party to victory from a late defeat, and 
was elected to Congress. The great Southern war found in 
him a ready soldier, rising to the rank of brigadier-general, 
and trusted with im- 
portant commands. By 
a noted victory in Flor- 
ida he won the title of 
Hero of Olustee. After 
the war was over, he re- 
turned home to build 
again the prosperity of 
his State, and took an 
active part in all meas- 
ures to their end. He 
was made president of 
the Georgia Agricultural 
Society, in which he was 
eminently useful. By 
patriotic attention to the 
interests of the State, 
won the honorable dis- 
tinction of this election. ^^^'^^ "• ^°^^"^"- 

4:. The advice of the governor on the financial affairs of 
the State was asked by the legislature, which he gave in an 
able and elaborate message. He recommended thorough and 
systematic economy in the use of public funds; a more accu- 
rate return of the value of taxable property; a more rigid 
collection of taxes; a reduction in the expenses of the gov- 
ernment, and the inauguration of other smaller reforms. 

5. The constitution of i868 proving unsatisfactory, the leg- 
islature provided for a convention to revise it, which met in 
July, this year, 1877. Several important changes in the con- 




316 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1878. 



stitution were made. The term of office of governor was re- 
duced from four to two years. The selection of judges and 
soHcitors of the superior court was changed from executive 
appointment to election by the people. Biennial sessions of 
the legislature were directed to be held instead of annual. 
The homestead was largely reduced. The regulation of 
freight and passenger rates of the railroads was put under 
control of legislation, and the payment of the fraudulent 
bonds was prohibited. 




Entrance to Atlanta. 

6. The ratification of this constitution was submitted by 
the convention to the vote of the people, and it was rati- 
fied. At the same time, the important question of the loca- 
tion of the State's capital was submitted to the choice of the 
people. The election took place in December, 1877, and 
Atlanta was chosen the capital of Georgia. 

7. The scheme of this removal of the seat of government 
from Milledgeville, was first proposed in the State conven- 



1878.] ADMINISTRATION OF COIQUTTT. 317 

tion of t868. The city of Atlanta proffered a capital build- 
ing, and an executive mansion for ten years, on condition 
that the city was made the State capital. A site within the 
city limits, and a sum of money equal to the value of the 
old buildings at Milledgeville was likewise tendered. The 
proposal to make the change was submitted to a popular 
vote, and carried. Thus the seat of State government has 
traveled from Savannah to Augusta, and by Louisville to 
Milledgeville, on to the thrifty city at the base of the Geor- 
gia mountains. A building known as the opera house was 
secured, and fitted for the use of the several departments 
of State government, and an elegant house was bought for 
the executive mansion. In 1883, the legislature appropriated 
one million dollars to build an ample and magnificent capi- 
tal, to be located upon a fine square on an elevation near the 
center of the city. 

8. A notable feature of 1878 was the collection for the 
State of several large claims. When military authority ceased, 
Georgia paid the United States government the alleged ex- 
pense it had undergone in repairing the Western and Adantic 
Railroad. It was ascertained that the payment had been 
excessive, and, therefore, proceedings were instituted to re- 
cover this excess. The suit was successful, and the State re- 
gained one hundred and fifty-two thousand dollars. Another 
claim against the general government, on account of the In- 
dian war of 1836, was also collected. The collection of these 
claims, and the increase in the State's current revenue, en- 
abled the governor to pay off the State's floating debt of 
three hundred and fifty thousand dollars, and also to reduce 
the amount of the bonded debt. 

9. Governor Colquitt was severely criticised for an indorse- 
ment made by him of the North-Eastern Railroad bonds. 
Tbe indorsement was made in 1877, to prevent the sale of 
the road, and in accordance with the pledge of State aid 
under the law of 1870. In 1874, the act authorizing State 



318 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1879. 

aid to railroads by the governor's indorsement of their bonds, 
was repealed, but the North-Eastern Railroad was excepted 
by special resolution. Accordingly, the indorsement was 
made. But the censure of the act caused the governor to 
ask investigation by the legislature of 1878. A joint com- 
mittee was therefore appointed, which, after strict inquiry, 
completely justified him. 

10. A series of exciting investigations employed the legis- 
lature of 1878. Wild rumors of irregularities in various of- 
fices of the State brought on the investigation of numerous 
offices. Committees were appointed to examine into the 
affairs of the offices of secretary of state, comptroller-gen- 
eral, treasurer, state school commissioner, public printer, and 
the penitentiary. Satisfactory reports were made in regard 
to these departments, except in the office of comptroller-gen- 
eral. In that office several causes of complaint were found, 
and articles of impeachment were preferred against the of- 
ficer. He was charged with illegally receiving and using 
money, making false returns, and altering the records of his 
office. The case was tried by the Senate, presided over by 
Chief-Justice Warner, and on the vote of the Senate the 
comptroller stood impeached, and was removed from office. 
Articles were also preferred against the treasurer, but after 
a full and fair trial he was acquitted. 

11. The constitutional convention of 1877 made it the 
duty of the legislature to regulate the freight and passenger 
tariffs of all the railroads in the State. The legislature of 
1879, therefore, passed an act to carry out this constitutional 
provision, and created the office of commissioners of rail- 
roads. Under this act, Governor Colquitt appointed three 
able and discreet men: Ex-Governor James M. Smith, 
Campbell Wallace, and L. M. Trammell, commissioners. 
The wisdom of the commissioners has made the measure 
highly beneficial in the increased advantages to the people, and 
prosperity of the railroads themselves. 



i879.] ADMINISTRATION OF COLQUITT. 319 

12. The unexpected resignation by the brilliant Gordon of 
the high position of Senator of the United States was made 
in May, 1880. Governor Colquitt immediately appointed 
Joseph E. Brown to the vacant office. The appointment sur- 
prised many, and provoked some severe censure. In the 
short term of the few weeks that remained of the session of 
Congress for which he was appointed, the new Senator did 
distinguished service on behalf of the State, and instantly 
acquired national fame, with controlling influence in Congress. 

13. The United States census of 1880 has many flatter- 
ing figures, demonstrating the growth of Georgia in mate- 
rial wealth. But as there has been marked increase since 
then the detailed exhibits will be found in the final chapters 
after the year 1883. 




320 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1880. 



CHAPTER LXII. 

1880—1884. 

Two Conventions.— Two-Thirds Rule.— Colquitt and Norwood Race.— Gar- 
field President.— Condition of the State.— The Finances.— Brown Elect- 
ed Senator.— James Jackson Chief-Justice.— Garfield Shot.— Education. 
— Internal Improvements.— The Cotton Exposition.— Prosperity of the 
State.— Senator Hill's Death.— Stephens Governor.— Colquitt Elected 
Senator.— Death of Stephens.— Boynton Governor.— Election of McDan- 
iel Governor.— Closing Statements. 

wo Democratic State conventions met in Atlanta in 
1880. The first met in June, and sent delegates to 
attend the national covention of the party in Cincin- 
nati. Hancock and EngHsh were nominated at Cin- 
cinnati, as candidates for President and Vice-President 
of the United States, to oppose Garfield and Arthur, 
the Republican candidates. 

2. The other State convention was one of the most noted 
that had ever met in the State. It assembled in August, 
and was composed of five hundred and forty-nine delegates, 
representing every county in the State. L. N. Trammell 
was elected chairman. The convention adopted the rule 
requiring two-thirds of the votes cast to be in favor of one 
candidate, before nomination could take place. This was 
known as the ''two-thirds rule." In recent conventions the 
rule has been abandoned. Five prominent candidates were 
before the convention, the foremost being Governor Colquitt, 
who led the way by a majority, but not by the required two- 
thirds. Six days of exciting discussion followed, and thirty 
ballots were taken without avail. At last the convention rec- 




i88o.] ADMINISTRATION OF COIQUITT. 321 

ommended Colquitt by a large majority vote as the candi- 
date for governor, and adjourned. The minority now met 
in convention, and nominated Thomas M. Norwood to op- 
pose Colquitt. 

3. Colquitt and Norwood entered on a joint public discus- 
sion of the issues raised in this contest, which consisted of 
exceptions taken to the administration of Colquitt. Many of 
the most talented men of the State engaged in the exciting 
discussion. Much bitterness of spirit unfortunately existed. 
But when the election was held, one hundred and eighty-two 
thousand votes were cast, and Governor Colquitt was reelec- 
ted by a majority of fifty-five thousand. 

4. At the same time, N. C. Barnett was reelected sec- 
retary of state; W. A. Wright, comptroller-general; Clif- 
ford Anderson, attorney -general; and D. N. Speer, treas- 
urer. 

5. The presidential election of this year resulted in a Re- 
pubHcan triumph, and the chosen candidates, Garfield and 
Arthur, were inaugurated March 4, 1881. 

6. The legislature met in November, 1880. James S. 
Boynton was elected president of the senate, and A. O. Bacon 
speaker of the house. Governor Colquitt's message exhib- 
ited the effects of his administration in the thrift and order 
which prevailed. All industries were promising. Many new 
enterprises were springing up. The several quarters of the 
State were growing in population and wealth. The credit of 
the State was at a high standard, and the public debt was 
steadily diminishing. Crime was on the decrease, and a high 
respect for law and religion was maintained. The governor 
congratulated the State on the blessings it enjoyed under the 
favor of God. 

7. The State's finances were in fine condition. The treas- 
urer had redeemed three-fourths of the four per cent, bonds 



322 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1880. 

issued under the act of 1878, and now he announced a sur- 
plus in the treasury sufficient to pay off the whole. Certain 
financial measures also added to the revenue of the State. 
Among these may be mentioned the collection of railroad 
taxes, in accordance with late acts of legislature. The act 
of 1874, which taxed all railroad property, was litigated by 
the roads with temporary success. The roads claimed ex- 
emption from taxation, except within limits defined by their 
charters. But Governor Colquitt tested the constitutionality 
of this exemption in the courts, and obtained a favorable de- 
cision, Thus the State collected over two hundred thousand 
dollars on account of railroad taxes since 1874. 

8. This legislature elected Joseph E. Brown to the United 
States Senate, to fill the unexpired term of Senator Gordon, 
ending March 4, 1885. His appointment by Governor Col- 
quitt was thus fully endorsed by the general assembly of the 
State. 

9. James Jackson, one of the associate justices, was elected 
at this session of the legislature, chief-justice of the supreme 
court His public service had been life-long in the legisla- 
ture, in congress, and on the bench, in all of which he proved 
himself above reproach. His purity of character, extent 
of legal knowledge, uprightness of judgment, all qualified 
him for the important station to which he was called, and 
commend his life to the emulation of his younger country- 
men. 

10. A tragical event occurred in July, 1881, in the assas- 
sination of President Garfield. He was shot by Charles J. 
Guiteau, in Washington City, and died after lingering over 
two months in great pain. The assassin, after a prolonged 
trial in which the defense of insanity was set up and fully in- 
vestigated, was found guilty of murder. His execution by 
hanging took place in June, 1882. This murder of the Chief 
Magistrate of the nation, produced great horror. Party dif- 



l88i.] ADMINISTRATION OF COLQUITT. 323 



ferences were laid aside, and the people all united in expres- 
sion of a common sorrow, Georgia was opposed to Garfield, 
but the whole State mourned the shocking act which ended 
his Hfe. Atlanta and other cities were heavily draped; great 
meetings were held and addressed by prominent citizens. The 
legislature also ordered memorial services, and passed reso- 
lutions deploring the President's death. 

11. On the decease of Garfield, the Vice-President, Chester 
A. Arthur, was sworn according to the law, and in Septem- 
ber, 1 88 1, assumed the duties of President of the United 
States. The excellence of our form of government appeared 
most strikingly in the even continuance of all its departments 
at work through all these critical months. 

12. National support of education now particularly engaged 
the attention of Congress. The Georgia legislature of i88i 
forwarded to Congress an important memorial, reciting that 
the acts of Congress conferring citizenship on colored people 
made their education necessary, and, since they were almost 
universally poor, some measures of aid should be given by 
the general government. Therefore, Georgia asked that 
an educational fund be raised and distributed among the 
States upon the basis of illiteracy, for the benefit of all 
persons, to be applied according to the laws of each State. 
This measure was ably advocated in Congress by Senator 
Brown. 

18. Education, in its science and in the art of teaching, 
was now advancing by great strides in the world. Georgia, 
though deficient in money, was attempting to make progress 
in the practical education of its children. The efforts of state 
school commissioner Orr, were beginning to produce good 
results. Schools were started in destitute regions, the num- 
bers of pupils were increased, and methods of teaching im- 
proved. The general work will be detailed in another 
chapter. 



324 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1881. 

14. A general law for incorporation of railroad and steam 
navigation companies was passed by the legislature of 1881. 
The spirit of enterprise was encouraged by wise legislation. 
Material improvement in all parts of the State was under- 
taken, and success crowned nearly all efforts. New railroads 
were surveyed and begun, new mines of gold and silver were 
opened, new factories great and small were founded, and im- 
provement in general agriculture, truck-farming, and. fruit 
growing, displayed the enlightened energy of the State. It is 
worthy of note that these enterprises were chiefly in the hands 
of the native born Georgians, and long residents of the 
State. 

15. The International Cotton Exposition was opened Oc- 
tober 5, 1 88 1, in Atlanta, with imposing ceremonies. The 
industries of all the States were represented. The buildings 
covered nearly twenty acres, and two thousand exhibitors ap- 
plied for space. It was a great event in Georgia, and gave 
considerable increase to the State's prosperity. Vast crowds 
came from all sections of the State and the Union to witness the 
exhibition. Of those who came from other States, many con- 
cluded to remain and invest capital in some enterprise, and 
those who were already inhabitants, received enlarged views 
of the greatness of their own state. The exposition buildings 
have been converted into an extensive cotton factory bear- 
ing the name of the Exposition Mills. 

16. Colquitt's administration closed with the State in great 
prosperity and peace. Providence smiled on the fields, and 
produced abundant harvests in 1882. The manufacturer, 
miner, and merchant, were enjoying their thrift. Education 
in all departments was improved. The name of the State was 
held everywhere in high honor as among the foremost of 
the Union, and the blessings of God rested on its religious 
and benevolent institutions. Immediately on the expiration 
of his service as governor, the legislature, in December, 



[882.] 



ADMINISTRATION OF COLQUITT. 



325 



1882, elected him senator of the United States for March 4 
1883. 

17. One great sorrow however projected its shadow across 
this bright scene. The mournful death of Senator Hill oc- 
curred at his home, August 16, 1882. The profoundest grief 
at this event, which deprived the nation of its most brilliant 
orator, was felt. Georgia manifested its love for the departed 
statesman, and its pride 
in his great talents, by 
numerous tokens. The 
memorial meetings, the 
funeral oration, the res- 
olutions of condolence, 
would fill a volume. 
His portrait, life size and 
life-like, was ordered by 
the general assembly, 
and is suspended in the 
capitol. His monument 
of marble was paid for 
by the coundess small 
subscriptions of the peo- 
ple, to stand in the cap- 
ital city of the State. 
His fame will be the in- 
spiration that shall move 
many young Georgians 
to attempt and achieve great things for their native State. 

18. Alexander H. Stephens succeeded Colquitt in the 
office of governor. He was elected in October, and inaugu- 
rated at the session of the legislature, November, 1882. His 
election was regarded as a tribute of popular esteem, and 
a token of the State's appreciation of his great public serv- 
ices through a long life. Born February 12, 1812, in 
Wilkes County, he was now past seventy years of age, and 

28 




Alexander H. Stephens. 



326 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1883. 

still possessed a clear mind and great energy. His eleva- 
tion to the head of the State, was, however, only the j^re- 
ciirsor of his death. In a few months, and while in the active 
discharge of his duties, he was stricken with sickness from 
which he never rallied. His death called forth rich expres- 
sions of esteem from many distinguished men of the United 
States, and from public assemblies outside of Georgia. 
Within the State the demonstrations showed the honor to 
his memory which he well deserved. A great concourse 
gathered in Atlanta to attend his funeral and followed his re- 
mains to the grave. 

19. The President of the Senate, James S. Boynton, be- 
came governor on the death of Stephens, until an election 
could be held by the people. President Boynton had ably 
guided the deliberations of the senate, and now, in a brief 
term of office, administered the affairs of the State with a 
wisdom that won the commendation of all. 

20. The election which was immediately ordered, resulted 
in the choice of Henry D. McDaniel to fill the unexpired 
term, and he was duly inaugurated at a called session of the 
legislature. 

21. The history of Georgia in 1883 was a continuance of 
prosperity. The legislature which held its adjourned session 
several months in the summer, had before it several impor- 
tant measures, among which was the bill to establish a 
school of technology, which failed to pass. The bill to au- 
thorize the erection of a capital at the cost of a miUion dol- 
lars in six annual installments, was passed. The " local 
option " temperance measure failed, but many local temper- 
ance laws were enacted. 

22. Briefly noting these very recent events, we reach 
the close of this history. We have reviewed the inspiring 
annals of Georgia's glorious past; we have watched the pro- 
gress of its populations, and the conflicts in which its right 



1884.] ADMINISTRATION OF McDANIEL. 327 

to greatness was won. The little ' ' seed-bud " planted at 
Yamacraw has grown to be the Empire State of the South. 
We observe with patriotic pride its present glory, and antici- 
pate yet greater luster to be shed from the history yet to be 
made. 



END OF PART THIRD. 



328 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1883. 



CHAPTER LXIIL 

PRESENT CONDITION OF STATE. 

1883. 

Position. — Boundary.— Area.— Mountains.— Rivers.— Coast.— Harbors.— Is- 
lands.— Sounds.— Swamp.— Climate.— Rain-fall.— Soils. — Minerals. 

Position. — The State of Georgia lies between the parallels 
of 30° 2\' 39" and 35° north latitude, and the meridians of 
80° 5i'43", and 84° 45' 21" longitude west from Greenwich ; 
or, 3° 48' 41" and 7° 42' 19" west from Washington City. 
Its greatest length from north to south is 320 miles, and its 
greatest width from east to west, 254 miles. 

Boundary. — The State is bounded on the north by Ten- 
nessee for 73^ miles, and by North Carolina for 68^ miles; 
on the east by the Savannah River and the Atlantic Ocean; 
on the south by Florida for 200 miles, and on the west by Al- 
abama and Florida. 

Area. — Its area is 58,000 square miles, containing 37,120,- 
000 acres. It was the largest of the "original thirteen" states. 
It now ranks ninth in size in the United States. Its geo- 
graphical center is about 20 miles below Macon. 

Mountains. — The surface of the State is divided into 
three distinct zones. The most elevated of these is 
Northe7'n Georgia, which consists of a series of ridges and val- 
leys, interspersed with mountain peaks ranging in height 
from 700 to 4,796 feet high. These ridges and peaks belong 
to the Blue Ridge, Alleghany and Cumberland Mountains. 
Mt. Enotah, in Towns County, is the tallest peak in the 



PRESENT CONDITION OF ST A TE. 



329 



State. The following table shows the principal peaks^ their 
situations and elevations. 

Enotah, Towns County, 4,79^ feet high. 

Rabun Bald, Rabun County, 4,718 feet high. 

Blood, Union County, 4,468 feet high. 

Tray, Habersham County, 4,435 ^^^^ high. 

Cohutta, Fannin County, 4,155 feet high. 

Yonah, White County, 3,168 feet high. 

Grassy, Pickens County, 3,090 feet high. 

Walkers, Lumpkin County, 2,614 feet high. 

Pine Log, Bartow County, 2,347 feet high. 

Sawnee, Forsyth County, 1,968 feet high. 

Kennesaw, Cobb County, 1,809 ^^et high. 

Stone Mt., DeKalb County, 1,686 feet high. 




Stone Mt. is the largest mass of solid rock in the world. It 
affords fme granite quarries. In the north-east corner of the 
State are the beautiful falls of Toccoa and Tallulah. 

Middle Georgia, the second and central zone, extends from 
the Savannah to the Chattahoochee River. Its average ele- 
vation is 750 feet above the sea. The lands are more level, 



330 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1883. 



and the ridges less prominent than in the upper portion of 
the State. Southern Georgia is a plain, which slopes gradually 
down to the ocean, with an elevation from 80 to 300 feet. 

Rivers. — The watershed which extends from the north-east 
corner of the State down to Atlanta, divides the rivers, send- 
ing some to the Gulf of Mexico, and others to the Atlantic 
Ocean. Upwards of fifty streams deserve the name of rivers. 
The water-power of the State is estimated at 4,000,000 horse 
power, sufficient to manufacture all the cotton grown in the 
world, or grind all the grain of the United States. The fol- 
lowing is a list of the chief navigable rivers : 



Name. 


Length. 


Navigable to 


Navigable 
length. 


Savannah, 


450 miles, 


Augusta, 


250 miles. 


Ogeechee, 


200 " 


Louisville, 


150 " 


Oconee, 


300 " 


Milledgeville, 


200 " 


Ocmulgee, 


250 " 


Macon, 


300 " 


Flint, 


300 *' 


Albany, 


250 " 


Altamaha, 


70 " 


Entire length, 


70 " 


Chattahoochee, 


420 " 


Columbus, 


400 " 



Coast. — The coast is very irregularly indented, and has a 
shore line on the Atlantic Ocean of 480 miles. It runs in a 
south-west direction for 128 miles. 

Harbors. — The harbors are few except where the rivers 
empty. Savannah, Darien, Brunswick, and St, Mary's, are 
the principal ones. Vessels of large size can enter these 
ports. The bar of Savannah has nineteen feet of water; that 
of Darien, fourteen feet; Brunswick, seventeen feet; St. 
Mary's, fourteen feet. Brunswick and Savannah, having large 
harbors, and accessible to the interior by means of rivers, carry 
on extensive trade. 

Islands. ^ — The islands that skirt the coast are low, flat, 
sandy, and but little elevated above the water. They pro- 
duce the celebrated sea island cotton. Cumberland Island, 
thirty miles long, is covered with magnificent oak forests, and 
lined with palms, palmettos and shrubbery. Other islands 



1883.] PRESENT CONDITION OF STATE. 331 

are Cabbage, Ossabaw, St. Catherine, Sapelo, St. Simon, 
and Jekyl. 

Sounds.- The principal sounds are St. Andrew's, St. 
Simon's, Altamaha, Doboy, Sapelo, St. Catherine, and Os- 
sabaw. 

Swamp. — In the south-east corner of the State is Oke- 
finokee swamp. It has a circumference of 180 miles, and 
abounds in cypress, oak, hickory, and other fine woods. It 
is filled with pools and small islands, and is the home of alli- 
gators, snakes and lizards. 

Climate. — The mountains, hills, plains and lowlands of 
Georgia, give to the State every variety of climate. The 
summer's heat and the winter's cold are tempered by breezes 
from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The av- 
erage summer temperature in the northern part of the State 
is 72^^; the winter temperature 32°. In the southern portion 
the summer temperatere is 80°; the winters 52°. The aver- 
age annual temperature of the State is 60°. Atlanta, Wash- 
ington City, and St. Louis, have the same mean annual 
temperature. 

Rain Fall. — The average rain fall is about forty-eight 
inches per year. The winds come from the south-east and 
south-west, and distribute the rains so as to prevent much 
drought and receive good crops. 

Soils. — In the northern portion of the State, the soil is 
composed of disintegrated lime-stones and shales of the Silu- 
rian and carboniferous formations, decomposed granites, 
gneiss, and schists. Alluvium is found in the valleys. In 
the central portion of the State the red clays and gray soils 
are composed of disintegrated feldspar, with potash. In 
Southern Georgia, lime-stone, marl, rich alluvium, and 
sandy tracts. These soils are all productive, and yield large 
crops. 



332 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1883. 



Minerals.— The principal minerals are coal, iron, cop- 
per, gold, lead, manganese. Granite, marble and lime-stone 
rocks are found; also kaolin, asbestos, mica, and soap-stone. 
The diamond, ruby, amethyst, opal, and other stones have 
been found in the upper portion of the State. 




PRESENT CONDITION OF ST A TE. 



CHAPTER LXIV. 



1883. 



Agricultural Products.— Fruit.— Woodlands.— Pasturage.— Mining.— Manu- 
factures. — Commerce. — Railroads. 



Agricultural Products. — There is no state in the 
Union with such a variety of products as Georgia. There is 

nothing grown in any State that 
can not be successfully grown 
here. Cotton is the great agricul- 
tural product of the State. Be- 
fore the civil war one-sixth (700,- 
000 bales) of the total cotton crop of 
the United States was produced by 
Georgia. In 1883, there was produced 
824,250 bales, valued at $33,000,000, 
and using 2,873,000 acres in its cultiva- 
tion. Georgia stands third among the 
eight cotton States. 

The following table shows the other 
products of the State (1882). 




Name. 


Amount. 


No. Acres Used. 


Corn, 

Oats, 

Wheat, 

Rice, 

Rye, 


36,963,940 bushels, 
21,643,482 " 
4,186,016 
25,369,687 pounds, 
130,610 bushels. 


'796*616. 
523,252. 

34,973. 

27,920, 



Besides these there is raised wool, flax, hemp, jute, silk, 
sugar-cane, tobacco, peas, beans, all kinds of garden vegeta- 



334 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1883. 

bles, tea, and indigo. In the southern portion of the State, 
vegetables can be gathered during the whole winter. 

Fruits. — Fruits of all kinds known in the temperate zone 
grow in Georgia. The apple, peach, pear, grape, fig, pome- 
granate, cherry, plum, raspberry, strawberry, olive, grow in 
large quantities. Oranges, bananas, lemons, and pecans, 
grow on the coast. Watermelons and cantaloupes grow in 
Middle Georgia, and are famous over the world for their kind 
and quality. About two-thirds of the area of the State is de- 
voted to farms, employing the attention of one-third of the 
State's population. Georgia is the tenth agricultural State in 
the Union. The following table exhibits the agricultural con- 
dition of the State : 

Number of persons engaged 432,204 

Number of farms 138,626 

Number acres cultivated 8,204,720 

Valuation total crop. $73^595,323 

Value farm lands $110,910,540 

Value farm implements $5,317,410 

Value fruit cultivation $782,972 

Woodlands. — There are about 230 varieties of wood in 
the limits of the State. The extensive pine forests on the coast 
and in the southern portion of the State, and the fine oak 
woods produce valuable ship timber famous over the world. 
This industry is worth over $2,000,000 annually. In the 
swamp there are immense quantities of cypress, used for 
making shingles, and palmetto, for wharf piles. Besides these 
there is found, walnut, poplar, oak of all kinds, chestnut, 
hickory, cedar, sweet gum, ash, elm, maple, beech, magnoHa, 
Cottonwood and sycamore. 

Pasturage. — In some sections blue, bermuda and other 
grasses afford good pasture land for stock raising and dairy 
farming, which are becoming industries of importance. There 
are in the State about 200,000 horses and mules, 700,000 
cattle, 500,000 sheep, 1,200,000 swine. Total value of Hve 
stock is $25,930,000. 



1883.] PRESENT CONDITION OF STATE. 335 

Mining. — The gold bearing region of the State is chiefly 
in the counties of Lumpkin, Habersham, Forsyth, and Hall. 
Before gold was discovered in California, the "placers" in 
northern Georgia were worked with much profit, the metal 
being found in the streams and mixed up with the quartz 
rocks of the hills. In 1853, the Dahlonega mint coined gold 
bullion of nearly half a million dollars value. At present the 
gold mining is worth about $80,000 annually, the mines 
yielding about 4,000 ounces. In the north-west corner of the 
State, along the ridges between the Alabama and Tennessee 
borders, there are immense beds of coal, yielding 155,000 
tons of coal annually, valued at $230,000. Iron ore is also 
found to the amount of 72,000 tons per year, valued at 
$120,000. Copper, silver, and lead ores are obtained from 
the Cohutta Mountains. In the Blue Ridge is a vein of mar- 
ble. The entire mining interest of the State is worth about 
$500,000 a year. 

Manufactures. — Cotton is the chief article of manufac- 
ture. There are seventy cotton factories in the State, with an 
aggregate capital of $12,000,000, giving employment to 
8,000 hands, and yielding goods to the annual value of $12,- 
700,000. Among the largest of these is the Eagle and Phoe- 
nix Mills, at Columbus, and the Augusta Factory at Augusta. 
The cotton factories consume twelve per cent, of the cotton 
crop of the State, or 104,500 bales annually. There are also 
1,132 grain mills, 655 lumber mills, 84 turpentine mills, be- 
sides valuable iron works and factories of all kinds, through- 
out the State. 

There is $20,000,000 invested in manufactories in the State, 
employing 36,167 hands, and producing goods to the annual 
value of $40,000,000. 

Commerce. — The favorable location, extensive railroads, 
and numerous navigable streams of the State, give it fine com- 
mercial advantages. Situated favorably between the North and 
South-west, and between the West and the Adantic harbors, 



336 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



trade between those sections passes through the State. At- 
lanta and Savannah are the principal commercial centers. 
There are 25,222 persons engaged in commerce. The prin- 
cipal articles of export are cotton, lumber, rice, fruits and 
grain. The value of foreign commerce is estimated at 
$25,000,000 a year. One hundred vessels of 2,200 tons bur- 
den are employed in foreign and coast trade. 

Railroads. — There are 40 different railroad companies in 
the State. In 1880 there were 2,616 completed miles of rail- 
road property, worth $60,000,000. They earn $3,500,000 
annually, clear of expenses. There is no Southern State equal 
to Georgia in the number of its railroad enterprises. Every 
portion of the State, from north to south, and from east to 
west, is intersected and opened to commerce. Atlanta, Co- 
lumbus, Macon, Savannah, and Augusta, are the chief rail- 
road centers. 

The taxable property of the State is $268,600,000. 




1883.] PRESENT CONDITION OF STATE. 337 



CHAPTER LXV. 

1883. 

Constitution.— Elective Franchise.— Legislative Power.— Executive Power. 
— ^Judiciary Power. — Taxation. — Division of State. — Population. — Edu- 
cation.— Religious Denominations.— Benevolent Institutions. 

Constitution. — The present constitution was adopted in 
1877. Among its provisions are the following: No person to 
be deprived of life, liberty, or property, but by due process 
of law; the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended; all 
men can worship God according to the dictates of conscience; 
religion no test for holding office; slavery is prohibited; no 
imprisonment for debt ; people have right to keep and bear 
arms; all lotteries are prohibited; no bill of attainder or ex 
post facto law shall be passed ; lobbying is a felony. 

Elective Franchise. — All elections must be by ballot. 
Every male citizen of the United States, twenty-one years of 
age, resident of the State one year, and of the county six 
months, and having paid all taxes, may vote, except convicts 
of the penitentiary, idiots and insane persons. Persons hold- 
ing public money unaccounted for, or convicted of duelling, 
can not hold office. On election days, the sale of liquor is 
forbidden within two miles of the polls. 

Legislative Power.— The general assembly consists of 
two houses: the senate, and the house of representatives. The 
senate has forty-four members, and the house one hundred 
and seventy-five, elected every two years. The sessions are 
biennial, beginning on the second Wednesday in November, 
and last for forty days, unless extended by two-thirds vote of 
each house. The senate is presided over by a president, and 
the house of representatives by a speaker, elected from the 
members. 



338 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1883. 

The legislature has the sole power of making laws- Every 
bill, before it becomes a law, must be read three times on 
three separate days in each house, and then receive a major- 
ity vote of the members, and be approved by the governor. 
In case the governor vetoes or disapproves of the bill, it re- 
quires two-thirds vote to make it a law. The per diem of 
members is $4, and the mileage is ten cents. 

Executive Power. — The officers of the executive de- 
partment are the governor, secretary of state, comptroller-gen- 
eral, and treasurer. The executive power is vested in the 
governor, elected every two years, with a salary of $3,000. 
He must be thirty years of age, a citizen of the United States 
for fifteen years, and of the State for six years. In case of 
the death of the governor, the president of the senate occu- 
pies his office. The Governor is also the commander-in-chief 
of the army and navy of the State, and of the militia. He 
has the power of granting pardons, except for treason and in 
cases of impeachment, and has the revision of all bills passed 
by the general assembly. 

Judiciary Power. — The judicial powers are vested in 
a supreme court, superior courts, courts of ordinary, justices 
of the peace, notaries public, and other courts. The supreme 
court consists of a chief justice and two associate justices, 
elected by the legislature for the term of six years. It sits 
only at the capital, and is a court for the correction of errors 
of the superior and city courts. There is a superior court 
judge for each one of the twenty-one judicial circuits, elected 
by the legislature for a term of office of four years. These must 
sit at least twice a year in each county. There is a court of 
ordinary for each county, with jurisdiction over roads, bridges, 
pubUc buildings, etc. There is one justice of the peace in 
every militia district of the State. 

Taxation can be levied by the general assembly for sup- 
port of State government; for educational purposes; to pay 
interest and principal on pubUc debt ; to suppress insurrec- 



PRESENT CONDITION OF STATE. 



339 



tion and repel invasion ; to supply maimed soldiers with arti- 
ficial limbs. 

The State is entitled to two senators and ten representa- 
tives in the Congress of the United States. The senators are 
elected by the legislature for a term of six years. The rep- 
resentatives are chosen every two years by the people, one 
from each congressional district. 

Division of State. — The State is divided into ten con. 
gressional districts, forty-four senatorial districts, 137 coun- 
ties, and about 1,400 militia districts. Each militia district is 
expected, in time of war, to furnish a certain number of men 
for service. 

Population.— The population of the State is 1,542,180. 
Whites, 816,921; colored, 725,259. It ranks thirteenth in 
population compared with other States. The following table 
shows the decennial increase since 1790: 



1790. 


1800. 


1810. 


1820. 


1830. 


82,548 


162,686 


252,433 


340,985 


516,823 


1840. 


1850. 


i860. 


1870. 


1880. 


691,392 


906,185 


1,057,286 


1,184,109 


1,542,180 



There are 304,060 families; 279,474 dwellings in the State; 
the voters number 321,438: whites, 178,967; colored, 143,- 
471. The following is a table of the six principal cities (cen- 
sus iT 



Name, 


Location. 


Population. 


Atlanta, 

Savannah, 

Augusta, 

Macon, 

Columbus, 

Athens, 


Fulton County, 
Chatham " 
Richmond " 
Bibb 

Muscogee " 
Clarke 


37,409- 
30,709. 
21,891. 
12,749. 
10,103. 
6,099. 



340 



STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. 



[1883. 



Education. — The constitution provides for "a thorough 
system of common schools" provided for "by taxation or 
otherwise," and free for "white and colored races." 

The State School Commissioner is appointed by the governor 
for a term of two years, and has charge of the general inter- 
est of education. Every county of the State has a board of 
education and a superintendent, and is provided with public 
schools, so that the advantages of an education are within 
reach of every child. Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, Ma- 
con, and Columbus, are under local laws, or separate organ- 
ization. 

The annual appropriation of the State for school purposes 
is $400,000. This is supplemented by about $175,000 from 
special counties. 

Besides the public schools in every county, there are nu- 
merous colleges, high schools, and elementary private schools. 
The following table shows the educational condition of the 
State : 





No. 


Teachers. 


Pupils. 


Income. 


Colleges, 
High Schools, 
Elementary Private, 
Local Public, 
State Public, 


29, 

99, 

931. 

239. 

6,112, 


224, 
198, 

1,005, 
375, 

6,112, 


4,282, 

6,383, 

33,304, 

20,494, 

235,938, 


$ 94,888.49. 
108,848.30. 
249,780.00. 
175,644.34. 
408,530.41. 


Total, 


7,409. 


7,914: 


300,401. 


$1,137,692.54. 



Of these, about two-thirds are white and one-third colored. 
Sixty per cent, of the school population is enrolled in the 
schools. The average school term in the State public schools 
is three months; in private schools four to eight months; 
in local public schools eight and three-fourths months. The 
average annual cost per pupil in State public schools is $2 ; 
in local public schools, $8. 

The State University is at Athens. It has thirteen profes- 
sors, and over 200 students. Connected with it are five ag- 
ricultural colleges, a law school, and a medical college, in 



1883.] PRESENT CONDITION OF STATE. 341 

various parts of the State. There are also colleges at Oxford 
and Macon, that have already been mentioned : also institu- 
tions at Lagrange, Dalton, Rome, Covington and Atlanta. 

Religious Denominations. — The Salzburghers v^trt t\iQ 
earliest religious denomination in the State. They es- 
tablished the first Lutheran church in Effingham County, 
in 1734. 

John and Charles Wesley introduced Methodism into Geor- 
gia in 1735. In 1785 Georgia was included in the South 
Carolina conference, but the Georgia conference was formed 
in 1830. In 1866 this was divided into North Georgia and 
South Georgia conferences. The denomination has now about 
175,000 members. 

The first Baptist church in the State was organized in 1772, 
at Keokee, in Columbia County, where Appling now is. Jesse 
Mercer was among the early preachers. Present member- 
ship, 225,000. 

The first Roma^i Catholic church began in Taliaferro County, 
in 1794, not far from Crawfordville. The denomination has 
steadily increased, until Georgia now forms a separate dio- 
cese under charge of Bishop W. H. Gross. 

In 1735 ^^^ Scotch Presbyterians established themselves at 
Darien. Soon after another Presbyterian church was begun 
at Savannah. The first presbytery was held in Wilkes 
County, March, 1797. The synod of Georgia embraces five 
presbyteries, and has about 12,000 members. 

The Episcopal Church, or the Church of England, was the 
estabhshed church of the State from 1755 to the close of 
the Revolution. The first confirmation was held in 181 5, and 
in 1840 the first bishop of Georgia was elected. At present 
there are about 7,000 members of this denomination. 

There are about 400,000 church members, or 26 per cent, 
of the population in the State. 

The Protestant population is a million and a half; the 
Catholic population, 25,000. 



842 STUDENT'S HISTORY OF GEORGIA. [1883. 

Benevolent Institutions. — Among the many benevo- 
lent institutions of the State, is the Lunatic Asylum at Mil- 
ledgeville, which was begun in 1842. It is large and com- 
modious, accommodating 1,300 inmates, who are given every 
medical care and attention. At present there are 1,138 in- 
mates. The Deaf and Dumb Asylum^ situated at Cave 
Springs, in Floyd County, founded in 1847, has ninety-five 
inmates. The Georgia Academy for the BV is at Macon. 
There are also large Orphan Asylums at Augusta, Decatur, 
and other places. 







I732-I883.] 



GOVERNORS OF GEORGIA. 



343 



^fe 



•|po»egoRsnompEORG3^i 



1732—1883. 



Gen. James E. Oglethorpe 1732 

William Stephens 1743 

Henry Parker 1751 

John Reynolds 1754 

Henry Ellis 1757 

James Wright 1760 

James Habersham 1771 

W^illiam Ewen 1773 

Archibald Bullock 1776 

Button Gwinnett 1777 

John A. Trentlen 1777 

John Houston 1778 

John Wereat 1778 

George W^alton 1779 

Richard Howley 1780 

Stephen Heard 1781 

Nathan Brownson 1781 

John Martin 1782 

Lyman Hall 1783 

John Houston 1784 

Samuel Elbert 1785 

Edward Telfair 1786 

George Matthews 1787 

George Handly 1788 

George Walton 1789 

Edward Telfair 1790 

George Matthews 1793 

Jared Irwin 1796 

James Jackson 1798 

David Emanuel 1801 

Josiah Tatnall 1801 

John Milledge 1802 

1883 Henry D. 



I Jared Irwin 1806 

I David B. Mitchell 1809 

! Peter Early 1813 

I David B. Mitchell 1815 

j William Rabun 1817 

Matthew Talbot 1819 

I John Clarke 181 9 

George M. Troup 1823 

John Forsyth 1^27 

George R. Gilmer 1829 

Wilson Lumpkin 183 1 

William Schley 1833 

George R. Gilmer 1837 

Charles J. McDonald 1839 

George W^. Crawford 1843 

George W. Towns 1847 

Howell Cobb 1851 

! H. V. Johnson 1853 

' Joseph E. Brown 1857 

Jas. Johnson, Provisional 

Governor 1863 

Charles J. Jenkins 1865 

Gen. T. H. Ruger, U. S. A. 

Military Governor 1868 

Rufus B. Bullock 1868 

Benjamin Conley, Presi- 
dent of Senate 1871 

James M . Smith 1872 

Alfred H. Colquitt 1876 

Alexander H. Stephens.... 1883 
James S. Boynton, Presi- 
dent of Senate 1883 

McDaniel 1883. 



CHARTER-ACQUISITION OF TERRI- 
TORY-TREATIES. 



Xlie Charter of Oeor^ia was granted June, 1732, by George II., 

King of England, to General Oglethorpe and other trustees, and gave to 
them in trust the lands between the Savannah and Altamaha rivers, and 
westward from their headwaters across the continent. 

In 1763, by treaty between Great Britain and France, the Mississippi river 
was made the western boundary of the State of Georgia. At the same 
time, by a treaty between Great Britain and Spain, Florida became a 
British {Possession, and the limits of Georgia were extended on the 
south to the St. Marys river. At that time the territory of Georgia in- 
cluded the present states of Alabama and Mississippi, though nearly the 
entire area was overrun by fierce Indian tribes, who bloodily disputed 
the rights of the white man. 

In 1802, the State of Georgia ceded to the United States Government all of 
the lands west of the Chattahoochee river, and brought its own terri- 
tory to the present size and shape. This was in consideration of 
$15,000,000, and on condition that the U. S. Government would rapidly 
extinguish all Indian claims to lands within the State's borders. 

By Treaty of June l, 1773, at Augusta, between Gov. James Wright 
and the Creek and Cherokee Indians, the lands were obtained which 
now compose the counties of Wilkes, Taliaferro, Greene, Elbert, Ogle- 
thorpe, and Lincoln. In 1783, by another treaty at the same place, the 
land was acquired up to the mouth of the Kiowee, and over to the head- 
waters of Appalachee, down this stream and along the Oconee and 
Altamaha. This land was laid out into the counties of Washington and 
Franklin. 

The Treaty at Oalpliinton was held with the Creek Indians, Nov. 
12, 1785. By this treaty possession was obtained of the lands included 
in a line running from the fork of the Oconee aud Ocmulgee rivers down 
to the south stream of the St. Mary's river. Out of this territory the 
counties of Camden and Glynn were made. 

The Treaty of 1802 was held at Fort Wilkinson, just below Mllledge- 
ville in June. Jas. Wilkinson, Benj. Hawkins, and Andrew Pickens, as 
commissioners, met forty Creek chiefs and warriors, and obtained from 
them a part of the lands between the Oconee and Ocmulgee rivers. The 
territory thus gained was made into the counties of Wilkinson, Bald- 
win, and W^ayne. 

The Treaty of 1805 was held at Washington City, between Henry 
Dearborn, Secretary of W^ar, and six chiefs. The remaining lands be- 
tween the Oconee and Ocmulgee rivers, up to the mouth of Alcovy river, 
the corner of Newton and Jasper counties, were acquired and annexed 
(314) 



ACQUISITION OF TERRITORY, ETC. 345 



to the counties of Baldwin and Wilkinson. These lands west of Oconee 
river were all distributed by the Lottery system as fast as they were ac- 
quired from the Indians. 

Xlie Treaty of 1814 was held at Fort Jackson, and was held between 
Gen. Andrew Jackson and Big Warrior in behalf of the Creek Indians. 
All the lands between the Chattahoochee and Altamaha rivers was ceded, 
out of which the counties of Early, Baker, Irwin, Appling, and Ware 
were formed. 

Xlie Treaty of 1817 was held at Fort Hawkins, between Gen. David 
B. Mitchell and the Creek chiefs. The territory gained by the cession 
then obtained, and also that obtained by treaty at Fort Laurens on Flint 
river, 1818, includes the counties of Newton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Walton, 
and most of Hall and Habersham. 

The Treaty of 1819 was held at Washington City, between John C. 
Calhoun, Secretary of War, and the Cherokee chiefs. The lands thus 
acquired were divided between the counties of Hall and Habersham, 
and the remainder was set apart to constitute the county of Rabun. 

The Treaty of 1821 was held at Indian Springs. Daniel M. Forney, 
of N. C, and David Merriwether, of Georgia, as commissioners, met the 
Creek Indians, and obtained a cession of the entire lands between the 
Flint and Ocmulgee rivers. This territory was formed into the coun- 
ties of Monroe, Bibb, Crawford, Dooly, Houston, Fayette, Pike, Henry, 
and Upson. 

The Treaty of 1825 was likewise at Indian Springs. Over 400 chiefs 
and warriors of the Creek nation were present. "All the lands lying 
within the boundaries of the State of Georgia, as defined by compact of 
1802," were ceded in return for lands of " like quality, acre for acre, west- 
ward of the Mississippi." These ceded lands lay between the Flint and 
Chattahoochee rivers, and were formed into the counties of Muscogee, 
Troup, Coweta, and Carroll. 

In 1829 the Cherokee lands were added to the counties of Carroll, De 
Kalb, Gwinnett, Hall, and Habersham, and the laws of the State ex- 
tended over them by act of the Legislature. 

By the Treaty of 1835 at New Echota, between the United States 
and the Cherokee chiefs, the Cherokees relinquished their claims to all 
lands east of the Mississippi, and were removed by the government 
to the Indian lands west of the Mississippi river. 

Thus the State obtained full control of all its territory, and has remained 
in undisturbed possession ever since. 



LIST OF COUNTIES 

Showing their Names, for whom named, the County Seat, when laid out, and 
present Population. 



Name. 



Fo7- -whom. 



Appling 

Baker . 

Baldwin 

Banks 

Bartow 

Berrien 

Bibb . 

Brooks 

Bryan 

Bullock 

Burke 

Butts . 

Calhoun 

Camden 

Campbell 

Carroll . 

Catoosa 

Charlton 

Chatham 

Chattahooc 

Chattooga 

Cherokee 

Clarke . 

Clay . . 

Clayton 

Clinch . 

Cobb . . 

Coffee . 

Colquitt 

Columbia 

Coweta . 

Crawford 

Dade . . 

Dawson 

Decatur 

De Kalb 

Dodge 

Dooly . . 

Dougherty 

Douglas 

Early . 

Echols 

Effingham 

Elbert . 

Emanuel 

Fannin . 

Fayette 

Floyd . 

Forsyth 

Franklin 

Fulton . 

Gilmer . 

Glascock 

Glynn . 

Gordon . 

Greene . 

Gwinnett 

Habersham 

Hall . . 

Hancock 

Haralson 

Harris 

Hart . . 

Heard . 

Henry . 

Houston 

Irw^in . . 



'Col. Dan'l Appling . . 
Col. John Baker . . . 
Abraham Baldwin . . 
Dr. Richard Banks . . 
Gen. Francis Bartow^ . 
John M. Berrien . . . 
Dr. W. W. Bibb . . . 
Preston L. Brooks . . 
Jonathan Bryan . . . 
Arch. Bullock .... 
Edmund Burke . . . 
Captain Sam. Butts . 
tjohn C. Calhoun . . . 
jEarl of Camden . . . 
Duncan G.Campbell . 
Charles Carroll .... 

Catoosa 

IR. M. Charlton .... 
lEarl of Chatham . . . 
Chattahoochee River 
Chattooga River . . . 
[Cherokee Indians . . 
Gen. Elijah Clarke . . 

Henry Clay 

A. S. Clayton 

Gen. Duncan S. Clinch 

John Cobb 

Gen. John Coffee . . . 
Walter T. Colquitt . . 
Christopher Columbus 
Chief of the Cowetas . 
Wm. H. Crawford . . 
Maj. Francis Dade . . 
Wm. C. Dawson . . . 
Stephen Decatur . . . 
Baron De Kalb .... 
Wm. E. Dodge .... 
Col. John Dooly . . . 
Charles Dougherty . . 
Stephen A. Douglas . 
Gov. Peter Early . . . 
Robert M. Echols . . 
Lord Effingham . . . 
Gov. Sam. Elbert . . 
Gov. David Emanuel 
Col. J. W. Fannin . . 
Gen. La Fayette . . . 

Gen. Floyd 

Gov. John Forsyth . . . 
Benjamin Franklin . 
Robert Fulton .... 
Gov. Geo. R. Gilmer . 
Gen. Thos. Glascock . 

John Glynn 

Wm. W^. Gordon . . . , 
Gen. Nath. Greene . . 
Gov. Button Gwinnett 
Joseph Habersham . . 
Gov. Lyman Hall . . , 
John Hancock .... 
Hugh A. Haralson . . 
Charles Harris .... 
Nancy Hart . . . . • 
Stephen Heard .... 

Patrick Henry 

Gov. John Houston . . 
Gov. Jared Irwin . . . 



(346) 



County Seni. 


Laid 
out 


Popu- 
lation. 


Baxley 


1818 


b,21b 


jNewton 


1825 


7,305 


iMilledgville . . 


1803 


13,806 


Homer 


18.>8 


7,337 


Cartersville . . . 


1801 


18,690 


Nashville .... 


185G 


6,619 


Macon 


1822 


27,147 


Quitman .... 


1858 


11,727 


Bryan 


1793 


4,929 


Statesborough . 


1796 


8,053 


Waynesboro . . 


1777 


27,127 


Jackson 


1825 


8,311 


Morgan 


18d4 


7,024 


St. Mary's . . . 


1777 


6,183 


Fairburn .... 


1828 


9,970 


Carrollton .... 


1826 


16,901 


Ringgold .... 


1853 


4,739 


Trader's Hill . . 


1854 


2,1,54 


Savannah .... 


1777 


45,023 


Cusseta 


1854 


5,670 


Summerville . . 


1838 


10,021 


Canton 


1832 


14,325 


Athens 


1801 


11,702 


Ft. Gaines . . . 


1854 


6,650 


Jonesborough . . 


1858 


8,028 


Homerville . . . 


1850 


4,138 


Marietta .... 


1832 


20,748 


Douglas 


1854 


5,070 


Moultrie .... 


1856 


2,527 


Appling 


1790 


10,465 


Newnan .... 


1826 


21,109 


Knoxville .... 


1822 


8,656 


Trenton 


1837 


4,703 


Dawsonville . . 


1857 


5,837 


Bainbridge . . . 


1823 


19,071 


Decatur 


1822 


14,497 


Eastman .... 


1870 


5,358 


Vienna 


1821 


12,420 


Albany 


1853 


12,622 


Douglasville . . 


1870 


6,934 


Blakely 


1818 


7,611 


Statenville . . . 


1858 


2,553 


Springfield . . . 


1777 


5,979 


Elberton .... 


1790 


12,957 


Swainsborough . 


1812 


9,759 


Morganton . . . 


1854 


7,245 


Fayetteville . . 


1821 


8,605 


Rome 


1832 


24,418 


Cumming .... 


1832 


10,559 


Carnesville . . . 


1786 


11,453 


Atlanta 


1853 


49,137 


Ellijay 


1832 


8,386 


Gibson 


1857 


3,577 


Brunswick . . . 


1777 


6,497 


Calhoun 


1850 


11,170 


Greensborough . 


1786 


17,547 


Lawrenceville . 


1818 


19,531 


Clarkesville . . 


1818 


8,718 


Gainesville . . . 


1818 


15,299 


Sparta 


1793 


16,989 


Buchanan .... 


1856 


5,973 


Hamilton .... 


1827 


15,758 


Hartwell .... 


1853 


9,094 


Franklin .... 


1830 


8,769 


McDonough . . 


1821 


14,193 


Perry 


1821 


22,414 


Irwinville .... 


1818 


2,696 



LIST OF COUNTIES^ Contmuci/. 



Name. 



Jackson 
Jasper . 
Jefferson . 
Johnston 
Jones . . 
Laurens 
Lee . . . 
Liberty . 
Lincoln 
Lowndes 
Lumpkin 
McDuffie . 
Mcintosh 
Macon . 
Madison 
Marion . 
Meriwether 
Miller . 
Milton . 
Mitchell 
Monroe . 
Montgomery 
Morgan . . 
Murray . . 
Muscogee 
Newton 
Oconee . . 
Oglethorpe 
Paulding . 
Pickens 
Pierce . . 
Pike . . . 
Polk . . . 
Pulaski . . 
Putnam 
Quitman . 
Rabun . . 
Randolph 
Richmond 
Rockdale 
Schley . 
Screven 
Spalding 
Stewart 
Sumter . 
Talbot . 
Taliaferro 
Tattnal . 
Taylor . 
Telfair . 
Terrell . 
Thomas 
Towns . 
Troup 
Twiggs . 
Union 
Uoson 
Walker . 
Walton . 
Ware . . 
Warren 
W^ashingtc 
Wayne . 
W^ebster 
White . 
Whitfield 
Wilcox 
Wilkes 
^Vilkinson 
Worth . . 



ton 



For luhoJH. 

Gov. Jas. Jackson . . . 
Sergeant Jasper .... 
Thomas Jefferson . . . 
Gov. H. V. Johnson . . 
Hon. James Jones . . ■ 
Col. John Laurens . . . 
Richard H. Lee .... 

Liberty 

Gen. Benj. Lincoln . . . 
Wm.J. Lowndes .... 
Gov. W^ilson Lumpkin . 

Geo. McDuffie 

Mcintosh Family . . . 

Nath. Macon 

Jas. Madison 

Gen. Francis Marion . . 
Gen. David Meriwether 
Andrew J. Miller .... 
HomerV. Milton .... 
Gov. David B. Mitchell 

Jas. Monroe 

Gen. Rich. Montgomery 
Gen. Dan'l Morgan . . 
Thos. W. Murray . . . 
Muscogee Indians . . . 
Sergeant John Newton 

Oconee River 

Gen. Jas. E. Oglethorpe 

John Paulding 

Gen. Andrew^ Pickens . 
Franklin Pierce .... 
Zebulon M. Pike .... 

Jas. K. Polk 

Count Pulaski 

Israel Putnam 

Gen. John A. Quitman . 
Gov. Wm. Rabun . . . 

John Randolph 

Duke of Richmond . . . 
" Rockdale Church " . . 
Gov. W^m. Schley . . . 
Gen. Jas. Screven - . . 
Hon. Thos. Spalding . . 
Gen. Dan'l Stewart . . 
Gen. Thos. Sumter . . . 
Gov. Matthew Talbot . 
Col. Benj. Taliaferro . . 

Josiah Tattnal 

Zach. Taylor 

Gov. Edward Telfair . . 
Dr. Wm. Terrell .... 
Gen. Jett Thomas . . . 
Gov. Geo. N. Towns . . 
Gov. Geo. M. Troup . . 
Gen. John Tw^iggs . . . 

Union 

Stephen Upson 

Maj. Freeman Walker . 
Gov. Geo. Walton . . . 

Nicholas Ware 

Gen. Jos. Warren . . . 
George Washington . . 
Gen. Anthony Wayne . 
Daniel W^ebster .... 

Rev. Geo. Whitfield . . 
Captain John W^ilcox . 

John Wilkes 

Gen. Jas. Wilkinson . . 
iGen. Wm.J. Worth . . 



County Seat 



Jefferson 
Monticello 
Louisville 
W^rightsville 
Clinton . . , 
Dublin . . 
Leesburgh 
Hinesville 
Lincolnton 
Valdosta 
Dahlonega 
Thomson . 
Darien . . 
Oglethorpe 
Danielsville 
Buena Vista 
Greenville 
Colquitt . . 
Alpharetta 
Camilla . . 
Forsyth . . 
Mt. Vernon 
Madison 
Spring Place 
Columbus 
Covington 
Watkinsville 
Lexington 
Dallas . . . 
Jasper . . . 
Blackshear 
Zebulon . . 
Cedartown 
Hawkinsville 
Eatonton . 
Georgetown 
Clayton . . 
Cuthbert . 
Augusta . . 
Conyers . . 
Ellaville . 
Sylvania . 
Griffin . . . 
Lumpkin . 
Americus . 
Talbotton . 
Crawfordvill 
Reidsville 
Butler ... 
McRae . . 
Dawson . . 
Thomasville 
Hiaw^assee 
La Grange 
Jeffersonville 
Blairsville 
Thomaston 
La Fayette 
Monroe . . 
Way Cross 
W^arrenton 
Sandersville 
Jesup . . . 
Preston . . 
Cleveland . 
Dalton . . 
Abbeville . 
Washington 
Irw^inton 
Isabella . . 



Laid 


Pcpu- 


out. 


lation. 


1796 


16,298 


1812 


11,849 


1796 


15,669 


1858 


4,800 


1807 


11,613 


1807 


10,051 


1826 


10,577 


1777 


10,649 


1796 


6,412 


1825 


11,049 


1838 


6,526 


1871 


9,449 


1793 


6,241 


1837 


11,675 


1811 


7,978 


1827 


8,589 


1827 


17,651 


1856 


3,720 


1857 


6,261 


1857 


9,392 


1821 


18,808 


1793 


5,381 


1807 


14,034 


1832 


8,269 


1826 


19,322 


1821 


13,623 


1875 


6,351 


1793 


15,400 


1832 


io,ef>- 


1853 


6,790 


1857 


4,538 


1822 


15,849 


1851 


11,954 


1808 


14,058 


1807 


14,539 


1858 


4,392 


1819 


4.634 


1828 


13,341 


1777 


34,565 


1870 


6,838 


1857 


5,302 


1793 


12,786 


1851 


12,585 


1830 


13,998 


1831 


18,239 


1827 


14,115 


1825 


7,034 


ISOI 


6,985 


1852 


8,595 


1807- 


4,828 


1856 


10,451 


1825 


20,598 


1856 


3,261 


1826 


20,566 


1809 


8,918 


1832 


6,431 


1824 


12,400 


1833 


11,056 


1818 


15.622 


1824 


4,159 


1793 


10,885 


1784 


21,964 


1805 


5,980 


1856 


5,237 


1857 


5.341 


18.51 


11,901 


1857 


3,109 


1777 


15,985 


]803 


12,061 


1853- 


5,892 



(347) 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

ACWORTH 289 

Agriculture 232, 313, 333, 338 

Agricultural Society 141 

Agricultural Products 333 

Agriculture, Department of . . . . 313 

Aiken, Warren 264 

Air Line Railroad 259 

Alleviating Law 151, 160 

Altoona, Attack on 291 

American Party 257 

Americus Vespucius 1 

Amnesty Oath 299 

Ansesthesia by Ether 242 

Anderson, Clifford 321 

Anderson, Major 276 

Andrews, Garnett 257 

Appalachicola, Fort 162 

Appling, Col 157 

Appomattox Court House 295 

Area of Georgia 328 

Argyle, Fort 15 

Arrest of Brown, Cobb, Hill, and 

Stephens 297 

Arthur, Chester A 323 

Ash, General 83 

Ashburn, Killing of 306 

Assembly, Representative 36 

Attack on Chesapeake 144 

Athens Factory 205 

Atlanta 245,290,291,316 

Attempt on State Road 282 

Augusta Founded 19 

Captured 89, 92 

Female Asylum 174 

Arsenal Taken 272 

Autosse Burnt 154 

Baltimore Convention 267 

Banks 142, 180 

Bank Convention 277 

Bill vetoed 238 

Controversy 262 

State 239 

Suspension 236 

Bankrupt Bill 241 

Bartow, Gen 277 

Battle, first in Ga 70 

Barnett, N. C 321 

Beall, A. A 227 

Beaufort settled 6 

Beauregard, Gen 276 

Bell, John 266 

Benevolent Institutions 341 

Benning, H. L 262 

Berrien, John M 190, 205, 241 

Bethesda Asylum 25 

(348) 



PAGE 

Bibb, Senator W. W 156 

Big Warrior 157 

Blackshear, Gen 156 

Blackshear Road 158 

Bleckley, Judge L. E 312 

Board of Public Works 202 

Bombardment of Atlanta 291 

Booth, John W 295 

Bosomworth, Thos 35 

Claim 36 

Boston Massacre 60 

Port Bill 62 

Boundary Line. . 103, 133, 137, 169, 198 

Boundaries of State 328 

Bowen, Commodore 69, 71 

Boyd, Captain 82 

Boynton, Jas. S 326 

Bragg, Gen 287 

Breckenridge, John C 267, 259 

Brier Creek 83 

Brown, Col 82, 89 

B,ow„,Gov,,„.E.{m^f;|™.^^. 

Brown, Gen. John M 290 

Raid of John 264 

Brownson, Gov. Nathan 95 

Brunswick 133 

Bryan, Jonathan 60 

Buchanan. Jas 259 

Bullock, Gov. Rufus B . . 305, 308, 309 

Archibald 63, 69 

Burning of Atlanta 292 

Yazoo Act 115 

Butler, Eliza 212 

Cabots, The 1 

Calhoun 289 

Campaign of 1864 287 

Into Tennessee 291 

Canals 202 

Capitol at Milledgeville 138 

Atlanta 316 

Capture of Davis 296 

Cassville 289 

Causton, Thomas 18 

Censure of Brown 302 

Centennial 219 

Central Railroad 231 

Central Bank 240, 255 

Challibbee, battle of 156 

Charleston 6 

Convention 265 

Charter of Georgia 10 

Cherokees, removal of. . 187, 208, 222, 229 

Trouble with 221 

Quarrel with Uchees 37 



INDEX. 



349 



Chickasawhatchee 227 

Clarke, Elijah 89, 107, 120 

Gov. John 173, 179, 195 

Party 172 

Clay, Henry 217, 244 

Clayton, Judge 210 

Climate of Georgia. ......•• 331 

Clinch, Gen. D. L 247, 249 

Coal 335 

Coast 330 

Cobb, Gen. T. R. R 270, 282 

Thos. W 190 

Gov. Ho well. 251, 254, 259, 265, 274, 285 

Columbus, Christopher 1 

Collection of Claims 317,322 

( 279 287 
Colquitt, (iov. Alfred H. . . ^ oiV ^25 

Walter T .' 'i256 

Commerce 335 

Compromise of 1850 • 252 

Comptroller-General removed. . . 318 

Confederate Money 283, 294 

Constitution 275 

Congressional Districts .... 105, 339 

Conley, Benj 300, 309 

Conscript Law 281 

Constitution of U. S • 103 

Georgia . . 104, 109, 116, 275, 315, 337 

Confederate 275 

Constitutional Union Party .... 266 
Continental Congress .... 55, 67, 103 
Controversy of Brown and Davis. . 281 
Controversy of Pres. Johnson and 

Congress 301 

^ , - J 216, 231 , 244, 265, 266, 271, 

Conventions . | 299, 304, 305, 315, 320 

Convict Lease 313 

Cooper, Mark A 244 

Cornwallis surrenders 95 

Council of Safety. . , 67,69 

Cotton .... 121, 164, 206, 231, 253, 333 

Gin. . 106 

Convention 263 

E.xposition ... 324 

Factories 335 

f. . -n- • f 26, 73, 99, 130, 157, 
County Divisions I ^gg^ 171, 176, 201, 339 

Crawford, Wm. H. . 129, 136, 150, 173, 220 
Joel 219 

Crawford, Gov. George W. . . 1 1^' ^^^^ 

Martin, J 274 

Creek War of 1836 225 

Meeting 169, 190 

Removal of 201, 226 

Croxton, Gen 297 

Cruger, Col • • . . 223 

Gushing, Caleb 267 

Dale, Major 225 

Dallas 289 

Dalton, attack on 288 

Darien 140 

Davis, Jefferson 274, 295 

Dawson, Wm. C 239, 249 

Death Roll of Georgia 283 

Declaration of Independence ... 72 

Democratic Party 256 

Departure of Emigrants . 12 



PAGE 

D'Estaing, Count 84 

De Soto, March of 2 

Division of State. . 26, 47, 54, 73, 105, 339 
Douglas, Stephen A .... • ... 267 
Dougherty, Chas 224, 234 

Early, Gov. Peter 155 

Ebeneezer founded 16 

Echowanotchaway 227 

p. ^^„^ (99,124,142.175,206, 

Education. . . . | 228, 232, 310, 323. 340 

Eggleston, Col 297 

Elbert, Gov. Samuel 101 

Elective Franchise 337 

Ellis, Gov. Henry 46, 51 

El Molina del Rey 248 

Elzey, Captain Arnold 272 

Emanuel, Gov. David 123, 139 

Emancipation of Slaves 283 

Embargo of 1807 144 

Emory College. 228 

Erection of Capitol 326 

Erie, Battle of Lake 154 

Evacuation of Atlanta 291 

Milledgeville 293 

Richmond 295 

Ewen, Gov. Wm 67 

Executive Power 338 

f 47, 53, 121, 164 
■•••"( 206, 232, 253, 336 

Exposition Mills . 324 

Expulsion of Negroes from Legis- 
lature 306 



Exports. 



Factories 142, 205, 

Fannin Massacre 

Few, Ignatius A 

Fillmore, Millard 252, 

Financial Distress of 1840 

Fifteenth Amendment 

Flag of Georgia . 

Florida, Expedition into 23. 

Trouble with 

Ceded to U. S 

Floyd, Gen. John 

Forsyth, Gov. John . . 171, 204, 216, 

Foster, Gen 

Fourteenth Amendment 

Franklin, Benj 

Franklin College • 

Frederica Founded 

French and Indian War 

Fremont, John C 

Fruits 

Furlow, Timothy 



Gaines, Gen . . . . 
Garmany, Captain . 
Gardner, Wm. M . 

James 

Garfield and Arthur 

Shot 

Geologist, State . . 
George II dies . . . 
George III, King. . 
Georgia named. . . 

Yazoo Co. . . . 

Miss. Yazoo Co 

Female College 



112, 
112, 



335 
242 
228 
259 
235 
306 
272 

76 
148 
170 
153 
218 
293 
306 

59 
V2A 

19 

39 
259 
334 
284 

193 

226 

248 

260 

320 

322 

313 

52 

53 

10 

113 

113 

228 



30 



350 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

Georgia Railroad Co . . . 231, 245 

Reconstructed 808 

Platform 253 

Academy for the Blind .... 255 
State College of Agriculture and 

Mechanical Arts 310 

Georgian, boat burnt 226 

Gilmer, Gov. George R . . 205, 214, 229 

Gold Mining 209, 335 

Gordon, John B ..... . 284, 305, 312 

Governor, how chosen 180, 338 

Government changes . . 41, 73, 271, 308 

Graham, Patrick 93 

Grant, Gen. U. S. . . . 287, 305,311, 319 

Grant's Campaign 50 

Greeley, Horace 311 

Greene, Gen 91, 102 

Grover, Chief Justice 53 

Gwinnett, Button 75 

Habersham, Gov. James .... 57, 61 

Hall, Gov. Lyman 05, 98 

Hampton Road's Controversy . . . 295 

Hancock and English 320 

Handly, Gov. George 103 

Harbors 330 

Hardee, Captain 248 

Hardee, Gen 279, 287 

Hardwicke 44 

Harrison, Wm. H 237 

Hart, Nancy 93 

Hawkins, Benj 128, 163 

Fort 169 

Hayes, R. B 314 

Head Rights 131 

Heard's Fort 89 

Hero of Olustee 287 

Hicks, Eli 220 

Hill, Benj. H 260, 278, 303, 325 

Joshua 273, 284 

Hood, Gen 289, 291 

Hood's Defeat in Tenn 294 

Hopkins tarred and feathered. . . 67 

Horse Shoe Bend 157 

Houston, Gov. John 76, 99 

Gen. Sam 242 

Hull, Wm. Hope 260 

Hyperian, boat 226 

Imprisonment of Brown 298 

Incorporation Act 324 

Indorsement of Bonds 317 

Indian Customs 4 

Wars 48, 226 

Removal 230 

Internal Improvements . . 166, 202, 257 
International Cotton Exposition . . 324 

Invasion of Florida 23 

Irwin, Gov. Jared 109,114,135 

IrwinsviUe 296 

Islands 330 

Iverson, Alfred 260, 290 

Jackson, Gov. James . . . 113, 116, 135 

Andrew 154, 205, 217 

Henry R 247, 280 

Judge Jas 312, 322 

James, ship 15 

Janes, Dr. Thos. 313 

Jasper, Sergeant 86 



PAGE 

Jenkins, Gov. Chas. J . . { ^56, 2J8, 3W. 

Jernigan, Major 226 

Jews, Arrival of 16 

Johnson, Andrew 295 

Gov. James 299 

Gov. H. V 256, 267, 301 

Johnston, Gen. Jos. E 287,295 

Jones, Noble W 59 

Judiciary 43, 118, 258 

Judiciary Power 338 

Kettle Creek 82 

Kennesaw Mt 289 

King, John P 220, 229 

Knox, Wm 55 

Kuklux Clan 306 

La Fayette, Gen 196 

Land Court 100 

Lottery 130 

Distribution 241 

Lawton, Gen. A. K 265, 281, 284 

Lee, Col. Henry 91 

r ■ w H2, 43, 282, 284, 288, 

Legislature . . . . | ' 294) 301, 338 

Legislative Power 337 

Lexington, battle of 66 

Lewis, John W 278 

Liberty Boys 64 

Lighthouses .133,175 

Lincoln, Gen 81, 85 

Abraham 266, 295 

Literature of Georgia 125 

Little, Wm 45 

Little, Dr. Geo 313 

Live Stock 334 

Long, Dr. Crawford 242 

Loring, Gen 289 

Lowdon, Fort 48 

Lumpkin, Gov. Wilson. • • • { ^219,"229 

Jos. H 246, 262 

John H 260 

Lunatic Asylum 241, 342 

Lyon, R. F 264 

Macon & Western R. R 232 

Maitland's Ship 69 

Manasses, battle of 277 

Manufacturing 232, 249, 253, 335 

March to the Sea 293 

Marietta 289 

Martin, Gov. John 96 

Matthews, Gov. George . . 102, 107, 151 

McAllister, A. H 246 

Fort 283, 294 

McCay, Judge 312 

McClellaii.Gen 279 

McCook, Gen 290 

McDaniel, Gov. H. D 326 

McDonald, Gov. Chas. J. . . | ^|54^^|g2 

McGillivray, Alex ' 107 

Mcintosh, Lachlan 76 

Gen. Wm 134, 163, 192, 193 

Gen. Jas 248 

McPherson, Gen 288, 290 



INDEX. 



351 



PAGE 

Mead, Gen 304 

Medical College 21o 

Meigs, Joseph 100 

Mercer University j-f^ 

Mexican War ^4b 

Middle Georgia 329 

Midway settled ^^^ 

Militia 37, 147, 285, 339 

Military Institutes l-w 

Rule 299 

Milledge, Gov. John .129 

Milledieville 132, 138, 2o2 

Miller, H. V. M ....•■...- 260 

Mims, Fort 1^;^ 

Minerals ^32 

Mining 33o 

Missionaries, Indian 211, 212 

Missionary Ridge 287 

Mississippi River 3 

Mississippi Territory ceded .... 125 
Mitchell, Fort 153 

Gov. David B 141, 161, 165 

Molineux, Gen 296 

Monroe, Pres., in Savannah .... 170 

Fortress 296 

Railroad 232 

Montgomery Convention 274 

Montgomery's Campaign 48 

Moosa Fort 24 

Moses, R. J 296 

Mounds, Indian 4 

Mountains ...*•• 328 

Musgrove, Mary 35 

Nashville, Ship Burnt 283 

Negro Convention 306 

Nelson, Gen 236 

New Echota 222 

Hanover 47 

Hope Church 289 

Inverness founded 18 

Nisbet, Judge E. A 271, 278 

Norcross, Jonathan 259 

Norwood, Thomas M 310, 321 

North-Eastern R. R 318 

Northern Georgia 328 

Nullification Act 216 

Oglethorpe, Jas. E 8, 80 

Okifinokee Swamp 331 

Olustee 287 

Omnibus Bill 252 

Orr, Dr. Gustavus J 312 

Osceola 



Parishes 47. 

Parker, Henry 

Pasturage 

Payne, John H 

Peace Committee 

Convention 

Peaks, Table of. 

Pemberton, Gen 

Penal Code 

Penitentiary 161, 181, 

Perry, Commodore 

Petersburg 

Pickens, Fort 

Pierce, George F 



225 

,54 
36 
334 
224 
274 
275 
329 
281 
161 
215 
154 
295 



228 



Pierce, Franklin 25o 

Polk, Gen 289 

Jas. K 245, 246 

Ponce de Leon 1 

Pope, Gen. lohn 304 

Population Table 339 

Position of Georgia 328 

Powder Magazine 66 

Preparation for War 277, 278 

President and Little Belt 146 

Priber, Christian 23 

Prince George, Fort 48 

Property confiscated 98 

Protest against Indians . . 174, 187, 197 

Protective Tariff 204 

Provincial Congress 64, 69, 70 

Public Schools 311, 340 

Pulaski, Fort captured .... 271, 281 

Count 86 

Rabun, Gov. Wm .... 165, 166, 172 
Raid, John Brown 264 

Col. Streight 283 

Railroads. . 202,223,231,249,259,324,336 

Railroad Commission 318 

Rain Fall 331 

Reconstruction Period 299 

Red Clay, meeting at 222 

Relief Laws 182 

Measures of 1840. 236 

Religious Denominations 340 

Representatives, State. . . .. 245, 339 

Republican Party 259 

Requisition for Troops 275 

Resaca, attack at 288 

Rescinding Act 115 

Reynolds, Gov. John 42 

Revolutionary War 57 

Richmond Academy 99 

City 276 

Convention 266 

Ridge, John 221,230 

Major 230 

Rivers of Georgia 330 

Roanoke burnt 226 

Ross, John 221 

Ruger, Gen 305 

Salzburghers 16 

Sandwich, ship 145 

Santa Anna 242 

Savannah founded 15 

Meeting in 63 

Captured 79, 294 

Siege of 85 

Surrender 97 

Fire and Plague 175 

Schermerhorn, Mr 222 

Schley, Gov. Wm 224, 228 

Schofield, Gen 291 

Scott, Gen. Alex 247 

Gen. Winfield 225,226,229 

Seal of Colony 42 

Seals of State 74, 117, 305, 311 

Secession Convention 271, 275 

Siege of Savannah 85 

Seminoles 149, 162, 167, 225, 236 

Senators, State 245, 339 

Seymour, Isaac G 247 



352 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

Sheppard's Plantation 226 

Sherman, Gen. W. T 287 

Slave Laws, attempt to evade. . . . 172 

Labor ol 

Slavery Agitations 251, 257, 204 

Slaves Emancipated 28:5 

Smith, Gov. Jas. IM 309, 811 

Soils 831 

Sounds 331 

South Carolina secedes 267 

In 1832 217 

Yazoo Co Ill 

Southern British Troubles 159 

Georgia 330 

Rights Party 252 

Spanish Settlements 6 

Troubles 22 

Invasion of Ga 27 

Specie Train 206 

Speedwell, ship 57 

Speer, D. N 321 

Stamp Act 55 

St. Augustine 6 

States Rights Party 220 

Secede 274, 276 

Steam Navigation 159, 170 

Stephens, Wm 26 

Thos 32 

Linton 264 

Gov. Alex 274, 296, 301, 325 

Stoneman, Gen 290 

Stone Mt 329 

Streight, Col 283 

Surface of Georgia 328 

Superior Courts 119, 338 

Supreme Court .... 210, 239, 246, 338 

Surrender of Johnston 296 

Lee 295 

Survey Creek Lands .... 192, 194, 199 

Cherokee Lands 215 

Swamp, Okefinokee 331 



Talbot, Gov. Matthew . 172, 184, 204 

Tallassee burnt 154 

Tarifif 204,215 

Tassel, George 210 

Tatnall, Gov. Josiah 124, 132 

Josiah 248, 276 

Ta.xation 338 

Taxable Property 336 

Taylor, Gen. Zachary . . . 246, 250, 252 

Technology, School of 326 

Tecumseh 146 

Telfair, Gov. Edward 102, 105 

Temperance (" Local Option "). . . 326 
Tennessee Dispute 224 

Yazoo Co 112, 113 

Terry, Gen. Alfred 307 

Texas Annexation 243 

War 242 

Thirteenth Amendment 301 

Thomas, Gen 292 

Thompson, Wiley 225 

Toccoa & Tallulah 329 

'J'omochichi 13, 22 

Topographical Engineer 174 

Toombs, Robert .... 260, 262, 278, 296 

Towns, Gov. George W 249 

Trammel, L. N 320 



PAGE 

Treasury closed 240 

Treaty with Mexico 248 

At Ghent 158 

At Paris 97 

With U. S 125 

15. 44. 54, 62, 98, 109. 
127, 132, 134, 166,171, 
176, 182, 191, 197,201, 



With Indians 



Troup, Gov. Geo. M. 



Trentlen, Gov. John 76 

Trippe, Judge 312 

Trouble with U. S. Government . . 200 
) 173, 179, 184, 
(195, 220, 255 

Trustees 10, 38 

Twiggs, David E 248, 279 

Tyler, John 237, 238 

Union League Society 305 

Party 220, 252 

University, State . . 99. 340 

Upper Mississippi, Yazoo Co. . . . 113 
Upton, Gen 297 

Van Buren, Martin . . . 229, 237, 250 

Vessels, British, captured 69 

Virginia Yazoo Co Ill 

Wager, Major 210 

Walker, W. H. T 248, 275, 290 

Dawson 311 

Walton, Gov. Geo. ... 84, 98, 104, 132 

Ware, Nicholas 180 

Warner, Hiram 260 

Wars. 

Spanish 22, 27 

French and Indian 39 

Revolutionary 57 

Of 1812 144 

Seminole 225 

Creek of 1836 225 

Texas 242 

Mexican 246 

Between the States 270 

Washington, George . . 77, 104, 105, 120 

Washington, Georgia 296 

Wayne,^Gen 96 

Judge 237 

Wereat, Gov. John 84 

Wesley, John and Chas 18 

Wesleyan Female College 228 

1 '^32 "^49 '^55 
Western & Atlantic R.R. . ! " '263,'308 



Whig Party .... 
Whitney, Eli. ... 
Wilkes Man'f. Co. . 
Wilkinson, Fort . . 
Williams, Maj. M. H. 
Wilson, Gen . 



237 
. . 106 
. . 142 
. . 127 
. . 297 
. . 297 



Woodlands -^-^^ 

Worcester, Samuel 212 

Wright, Gov. James. . . . 52, 62, /O, 81 

W. A 321 

A. R 279 



Yamacraw 



13 



Yancey, Wm. L 266 

Yazoo Fraud Ill 

Resolutions l*^' 



\ '^ Mr'33 



